When Laughter Hurts: The Hidden Cost of Mockery at Work, Why HR Leaders Must Replace Sarcastic Cultures, With Spaces of Safety, Respect, and Innovation

Author(s): Dr. Syam Sundar Bakki

Abstract:

Mockery in the workplace is an underestimated form of organizational toxicity that often disguises itself as humour or wit. Yet beneath its surface lies a subtle form of disrespect that corrodes team morale, diminishes psychological safety, and disrupts professional harmony. This paper explores the phenomenon of mockery through an interdisciplinary lens, drawing insights from spiritual, psychological, and management perspectives. The Biblical verse from Psalm 1- “Blessed is the one who does not sit in the company of mockers”-serves as the ethical foundation, warning against the moral stagnation that arises from associating with derisive influences. The Bhagavad Gita and the Qur’an similarly caution against speech and conduct born of ego and ignorance, associating them with tamasic (destructive) tendencies. By integrating these timeless principles with contemporary HR research on workplace incivility, aggressive humour, and bullying, the article highlights the behavioural patterns and cultural climates that enable mockery to thrive. It contrasts tamasic employees, who belittle and divide, with sattvic colleagues, who elevate and unite through empathy, humility, and positive communication. The study proposes actionable strategies-ethical training, reflective dialogue, and peer accountability-to transform organizational humour into a constructive, inclusive force. Ultimately, the article redefines mockery not as mere misconduct but as a moral and cultural challenge. It calls upon educators and organizational leaders to foster workplaces where humour enlightens, respect strengthens collaboration, and the dignity of every individual is preserved.

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