Ashley - I don't know of any work dedicated solely to laugh tracks, but just as a point of interest -- Todd Gitlin in -Inside Prime Time- recounts the disagreements over whether or not M*A*S*H (the tv series) should have a laugh track. The producers didn't want it; CBS research indicated that it tested higher (with test focus groups) -with- the laugh track. So the laugh track stayed. Interestingly, Gitlin notes that in British syndication, M*A*S*H ran without the laugh track. Apparently the Brits know when to laugh, while we need cue cards! Julie Friedline Media Studies U of Iowa On Mon, 18 Apr 1994, Ashley Lindsay Salisbury wrote: > I am looking for any resources on the laugh track for a research project. > If anyone knows anything about the history, current use, etc., or would like > to discuss this topic, please get in touch. Also, if anyone knows where > Charley Douglas, Bob Douglas, or Carroll Pratt work now, I'd be much obliged > for any info. > > Thank you, > Ashley