It's surprising how many people have the same uneducated, non-researched, simple explanation for why we laugh or cry. Now I'm female so I can safely say I enjoy both and know the benefits I, personally, reap from them. But, I have a very picky, logical side that argues there needs to be more reason (for anything) than just an emotion or feeling. So!:
http://www.gibbsmagazine.com/CryinLaughing.htm

I like the 2nd half better. But, the whole thing is pretty interesting.
God, I love Google!

"Most mammals will produce tears in response to extreme pain or other stimuli, but crying as an emotional reaction is considered by many to be a uniquely human phenomenon, possibly due to humans' advanced self-awareness. Some studies suggest that elephants and gorillas may cry as well."


If there ever was an intended point to this, it is just that, despite a very well acknowledged logical side, I know there are things that cannot be explained in the detail required to convince one of anything other than: some things are simply a matter of faith, above logic. I will make clear that religion is NOT one of them (as I do not need THAT to validate my existence. Been there, done that. Yawn). No, there is but one mere element that is powerful enough to shake my belief that we are all here just to be here. Pointless and insignificant. Just another animal dominating this planet. I am not alone, as I have heard/read it. I am ever-guided by a voice I was convinced no one else could hear. Surely if they did, this world would be a much better place.

Hence, I am fascinated. In search of a catch, without proof that one exists. I am an optimistic pessimist. :) Waiting to be proved wrong.