Humor has been used throughout the ages to challenge authority, deal with fear and to just plain entertain. For most of us, humor is a necessity of life. However, humor is subjective, some comedy is dependent upon its historical context for example, and therefore, not all jokes are enjoyed by all people.

However, this list of famous funny quotes is a timeless selection, which spans a broad range of humor, from men and women of varying backgrounds.

"I am so clever that sometimes I don't understand a single word of what I am saying." - Oscar Wilde (1854 - 1900). Irish playwright, author and renowned wit, Oscar Wilde's sardonic brand of humour is at times scathing. Best known for his dramatic works including, The Importance of Being Earnest and A Woman of No Importance, Wilde's comedies are still widely performed.

"I never forget a face, but in your case I'll be glad to make an exception." - Groucho Marx (1890 - 1977). The third born Marx brother, Groucho was known for his rapid wit and his penchant for vaudeville-style innuendo. Star of 13 movies (as part of the Marx Brothers), Groucho went on to find solo success.

"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." - Thomas Edison (1847 - 1931). Prolific inventor, Thomas Edison, is not known for his comedic skills. However, this uniquely positive spin on failure is both amusing and inspirational.

"I am free of all prejudices. I hate everyone equally." - W. C. Fields (1880 -1946). American actor, comedian and writer, W. C. Fields, was best known for his onstage persona of a misanthrope. This character was portrayed by Fields in a number of film and radio projects.

"In politics, if you want anything said ask a man. If you want anything done, ask a woman." - Margaret Thatcher (born in 1925). First female British prime minister, Thatcher, was known as the 'Iron Lady'. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there has been much satire made of her attitude towards men.

"Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former." - Albert Einstein (1879 - 1955). The German born physicist, Einstein, is best known for his theory of relativity, which revolutionized the world of physics.

If you didn't realize it already, it is clear that humour is used in all walks of life. Comedy can be used as a defence, as a way to charm others or as an insult. Its uses are boundless and, therefore, humour is found in every profession, in all races and classes of people throughout history.

Frank Fausto draws inspiration from those who lived before us. In particular he is a fan of Thomas Edison quotes. If you want to read some of Edison's quotes, or learn more about Thomas Edison inventions, follow Frank's writings http://www.edisonmuckers.org/thomas-edison-inventions/.