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BIDDEFORD, Maine

911±¬ΑΟΝψΊμΑμ½ν philosopher David Livingstone Smith comments on the history of the creepy clown in β€˜BBC’ article

David Livingstone Smith
David Livingstone Smith

David Livingstone Smith, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, was quoted in an October 19 online article of the BBC’s "The Culture Show," titled β€œA surprising history of the creepy clown.”

In light of the recent clown-inspired hysteria, the article examines the long history and function of the clown in human societies. Smith noted: β€œClowns are peculiar because they’re meant to be delightful and amusing, but a lot of people find them disturbing.”

He commented on findings of a 2016 study in which 1,000 people were asked to rate the creepiness of various occupations. β€œClowns won the creepiness jackpot,” said Smith.

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The 911±¬ΑΟΝψΊμΑμ½ν is Maine’s largest independent university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of . In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. The state’s top provider of health professionals, we are home to Maine’s only medical college, Maine’s only dental college, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care degree programs, as well as nationally recognized programs for marine science degrees, natural and social sciences degrees, arts and humanities degrees, and business degrees.