Aidan Jones: the 10 funniest things I have ever seen (on the internet)

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"Aidan Jones Reflects on the Humor Found in Internet Culture"

Aidan Jones: the 10 funniest things I have ever seen (on the internet) analysis cover image

The Guardian 7.0

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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2025/jun/12/aidan-jones-the-10-funniest-things-i-have-ever-seen-on-the-internet

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Raw Article Publish Date: 11 June 2025

AI Analysis Average Score: 7.0

These scores (0-10 scale) are generated by Truthlens AI's analysis, assessing the article's objectivity, accuracy, and transparency. Higher scores indicate better alignment with journalistic standards. Hover over chart points for metric details.

TruthLens AI Summary

In a reflective piece, comedian Aidan Jones explores the dual nature of the internet, acknowledging its negative reputation while highlighting its potential for joy and wonder. He recalls his first experience with broadband in 2005, likening the excitement to a character in F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby.' Jones expresses his concerns about how the internet has been exploited by powerful tech companies to profit from users' time and attention. Despite the criticisms it faces, he questions whether it is truly wrong to engage with the digital world a little longer, hinting at the balance between enjoying the internet's offerings and remaining grounded in reality. Through this lens, he presents a list of the ten funniest things he has encountered online, showcasing the humor that can thrive amidst the chaos of the internet.

Jones shares personal anecdotes tied to his selections, illustrating how these moments have shaped his comedic perspective. From fond memories of childhood friends who introduced him to indie films to the evolution of lesser-known Australian comedians gaining recognition, he emphasizes the connections formed through shared laughter. His list includes various comedic acts, such as a memorable stand-up bit about aging and hangovers, and a humorous poem about the Beatles that resonates with fans. He also highlights the impact of social media and the importance of curating online experiences, advocating for a proactive approach in shaping the digital landscape. Ultimately, Jones suggests that the internet is a reflection of ourselves, and by engaging with positive content, we can foster a healthier online environment that celebrates creativity and humor.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The article reflects on the dichotomy of the internet as both a source of joy and a tool for manipulation. It offers a personal narrative on the evolution of the internet experience, balancing nostalgia with critique. The writer introduces ten amusing online moments, using humor as a lens through which to examine deeper societal concerns.

Purpose of Publication

The intention behind this article appears to be to engage readers in a dialogue about the internet's dual nature. By presenting funny anecdotes, the author aims to remind readers of the joy that can still be found online, despite the pervasive negativity often associated with digital life. This could be seen as an attempt to foster a more positive view of the internet and its role in contemporary culture.

Perception Creation

The article seeks to cultivate a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the internet's capacity to entertain and connect people. It subtly argues against the extreme viewpoint of completely abandoning the digital world, suggesting instead that there is still value in remaining engaged, even as one acknowledges the darker aspects of internet culture.

Information Omission

While the article focuses on the humorous aspects of internet culture, it does not delve into the negative implications of internet usage, such as the spread of misinformation or the impact of tech oligarchs on personal privacy. This selective storytelling could be perceived as an attempt to downplay significant issues that might detract from the enjoyment of digital culture.

Manipulativeness Assessment

The article does not appear overtly manipulative, but it does employ a nostalgic tone that could lead readers to overlook more serious critiques of the internet. By emphasizing humor, the author may risk trivializing the complex relationship society has with technology.

Truthfulness

The anecdotes shared seem genuine and relatable, providing a truthful representation of personal experiences. However, the broader context of the internet's impact on society is not fully explored, which could lead to a skewed perception of the overall digital landscape.

Societal Perception

The underlying message advocates for a balanced view of the internet, suggesting that while there are dangers, there are also joys worth celebrating. This perspective could resonate particularly with audiences who feel overwhelmed by negative portrayals of digital life.

Connection to Other News

In the broader context of recent discussions about technology and society, this article may serve as a counterpoint to more critical narratives about the internet, positioning itself as a lighthearted take amidst more serious analyses.

Industry Image

The publication of this article contributes to an image of the tech industry that acknowledges both its flaws and its benefits, appealing to a demographic that values humor as a coping mechanism for navigating modern life.

Potential Societal Impact

The article could inspire readers to engage more thoughtfully with the internet, promoting a culture that values humor and creativity. However, it may also risk normalizing complacency regarding the more harmful aspects of digital culture.

Target Audience

This piece likely appeals to younger audiences familiar with internet culture and humor. It resonates with those seeking a lighter perspective on the challenges posed by technology.

Market Influence

While the article does not directly address financial markets, the cultural narratives surrounding technology and the internet can influence investor sentiment in tech stocks. Positive stories about internet culture could bolster confidence in companies associated with entertainment and media.

Global Dynamics

The article touches on themes relevant to ongoing discussions about technology's role in society. It reflects a growing recognition of the need for balance in how we engage with digital platforms.

Artificial Intelligence Involvement

It is unlikely that AI was specifically involved in crafting this article, as it reflects a personal voice and unique storytelling style. However, AI could be used in the production process to analyze trends in humor or internet culture, potentially influencing the topics selected for discussion.

In summary, this article is a mixed bag that combines humor with a subtle critique of our relationship with the internet. While it successfully creates a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for digital joy, it does so at the expense of a more comprehensive discussion of the negative aspects of the online world.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2025/jun/12/aidan-jones-the-10-funniest-things-i-have-ever-seen-on-the-internet

The internet gets a lot of bad press, most of which is itself published on the internet, which does seem hypocritical. The complaints usually mourn a loss of innocence and freedom. They remember the way things used to be, before the digital world was conquered by a handful of infinitely powerful tech oligarchs.

I remember when we first got broadband in 2005. I felt like one of F Scott Fitzgerald’s Dutch sailors at the end of The Great Gatsby, “face to face for the last time in history with something commensurate to his capacity for wonder”.

It’s scary to think that this beautiful thing has been stolen and turned against us. Used to extract the very minutes of our lives, which are then sold for profit.

Some think that we should switch it off, shut the whole thing down before we lose touch with what’s real, and who we are. But is it really so wrong to stay just a little bit longer?

These are the 10 funniest things I have ever seen on the internet.

This is the first standup special I ever remember watching. I always loved this bit about how hangovers get worse as you get older, which is so funny to me now because I’d never been drunk when I first saw this. Now I’m in my 30s, but I’ve been sober for 6 years, so you could argue that I still don’t really get it. But I love the bit now for the same reason I did when I was 13: the violent way he says, “SHUT UP!”

In high school I was friends with these two brothers who lived on my street. Their dad was an illustrator and loved the Beatles, and their mum would take carloads of us out to the hills to film gory slasher movies that they wrote and produced together. They introduced me to so much indie film and weird art that felt a world away from suburban Adelaide and as weird as Brad Neely’s overdub of the entire first Harry Potter film is, it’s also just the tip of the iceberg. As an aside, one of the brothers, Pirie Martin, is a film-maker in his own right now and his first feature Psychosis was released in 2023 and absolutely rules.

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Speaking of the Beatles! James Donald Forbes McCann, as he insists on being referred to, was one of the best comedians in Australia for years and no one cared. Then he started opening for Shane Gillis and moved to the US, and now he rightfully sells tickets everywhere he goes. I could have just as easily put his “Fool Me Once” bit on this list, but I can’t go past this poem about the Beatles. It’s the age-old question: who is the best Beatle? For me, this poem settles it for good.

Andrew Portelli is currently one of the best comedians in Australia and no one cares. But the game is long, and the world will have its justice.

Group X – Waffle House

My friend Lucy and I still quote this video and I’d say it might even be one of the cornerstones of our 15-year friendship, along with “Let’s get some SHOES!” and a house mixtape called Midyear Mayhem that my friend Mebbo released in 2009. How about that MS Word-era gradient in the animation! Phenomenal.

These two hosts of Triple J breakfast – along with guest comedian Alex Ward – take turns saying nice things to each other, and then reacting with the smallest possible smile. You will not believe how much fun this is until you do it with your loved ones. After you’re done laughing at that, appreciate the beautiful irony of a breakfast radio team posting an entirely visual gag to their Instagram.

When I moved to Melbourne in 2012, David Quirk was the first comic I ever shared a bill with whose work I was already familiar with. I loved this set from Festival Club, and there is no better summary of what comedians do than his quip, “All I do is participate in life, and report back.” Watching Quirk emcee the open mic at The Monastery in Richmond to four punters in 2012 was an incredible thrill, and also served as great preparation for how the next decade-plus of my life would look.

This account seems to have gone relatively quiet in the last few years, but in my mid-to-late 20s it was huge. It’s a girl from Manchester who collects and shares screenshots of the insane things men say to women on the internet. When it blew up I was just beginning to reckon with the idea that the repeated failure of all of my romantic endeavours might partially be my fault. (SURELY NOT?!) Reading these posts always made me laugh, but contained within them was also the helpful subtext: “Hey you! Yeah you. Don’t be an asshole.”

Blake Freeman is one of the most natural performers I’ve ever seen. When we met I was 21 and he was 16 and even then he had an unnatural wisdom about him, which is funny because his act is all about how he’s dumb. He’s not dumb, he’s lying to you, don’t listen to him! This bit he did for the Melbourne comedy festival gala this year is unbelievable.

I don’t buy into the fatalist idea that the internet is this awful thing that is ruining our lives. Sure there are bad aspects, just like everything, but the internet is really just us, reflected back at ourselves. If we don’t like what we see, it’s up to us to change it. Train the algorithm to show you the kind of content you want to see, and reward the kind of creation you want to reward. It starts with you, right here, right now. With this video of a simple man transforming into a cat.

Aidan Jones is a standup comedian. His showChopin’s Nocturneis at Summerhall for the Edinburgh fringe from 31 July to 25 August. Follow him onInstagram

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Source: The Guardian