I'm sure that it has a social function in strengthening and reinstating institutions, namely that of truth-telling, by allowing people to lie and trick others to their heart's content for one day only. It's big old switcheroo that through the act of reversal establishes social boundaries. Like the Carnival or Saturnalia or the Akitu festival, which took place this time of the year. Participating in social games and rituals bring a cohesive element to our communal existence. I get it.

But I don't like it.