Using humour in a nonviolent campaign changes the interaction dramatically. It is difficult for companies, institutions or governments to respond to humour without being seen as overreacting. Clowning and a carnivalesque atmosphere can contribute to de-escalating dangerous situations, but can also be a way to undermine and ridicule those in power. However, humour is not always something positive. Like all other ways of communicating it can be used to hurt and marginalise minorities and disadvantaged groups in society.