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The British like a bit of satire and general 'fun poking' - especially aimed at themselves or their own. Having travelled and lived abroad often, this is not the norm. In fact laughing at yourself is a curious phenomenon, but an excellent antidote to creeping delusions of grandeur. In Germany, it's well known as the ("zee" sounds better) 'curious British sense of humour'. TV programmes such as Mock the Week, Have I got [Old] News for You and back in the eighties Spitting Image are/were hugely popular with the public. In fact many MPs were disappointed if they didn't warrant a puppet. With some even trying to acquire them after the show retired. Though, less enthusiastically when they discovered they'd have to pay for them at auction. I feel an expense claim coming on (yep. satire).

I think it's probably the key defining trait of the British. Laughing at yourself and pricking the bubble of self-pride, has always been in the national interest. It might not feel comfortable, though like Yoga - that's probably why it's so good for you. In the Georgian period, 'Punch' was the popular satirical magazine of the day and after 50 years, 'Private Eye' is still reliably, casting its beady eye over those in positions of authority.

Always highlight with an example. Here's some light, satirical relief - from the Inside Guide to London. Carry on.

{Overheard: the Royal carriage at - Trooping the Colour}

An angry buzzing sound was travelling up the Mall, from the Footguards' vuvuzelas to the Royal phaeton.
"The corgis'll never sleep through it, and I just don't care if everyone's joining in." said Liz. "We didn't build an Empire..."
"Commonwealth." Corrected Phil.
"...Commonwealth, by simply copying everybody else."
"Harry says everyone's into it these days - like texting, or whatever..." Phil tailed off
"Erm... 'twitting', I think you'll find" replied Liz - thinly gloating.
"What-ever, funny-bunny. I rather like it. It's the new tone on my iPhone." said Phil. (muttering along) "mmmm... Hitler, mmmm, has only got one... (*whistles*)"
"I want it on my iPhone!"
"You can't have it!"
"One wants it!" (grabbing)
"Cant. Have it!" (holding up high)
etc.

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