The NY Times just published a survey conducted by Comedy Central, and the good news for them is that it appears the Millennial generation (well at least its males) view comedy as “essential to how young men view themselves and others.” More than personal style and more than music. It’s obviously good news for a channel that relies so heavily on comedy.

The survey polled 2,000 people online and gathered young people in 19 cities around the country, it’s findings showed that 63% of men born after 1981 would rather be trapped in an elevator with Jon Stewart over Eli Manning (15%) or some other idolized athlete. Even more interesting numbers, 88% felt their sense of humor was crucial to self-definition, 74% think “funny people are more popular,” and 58% have sent out funny videos to make an impression on someone else.

What this means for all of us comedy fans? The Millennial generation (also known as Generation Y, generally children born after the first Regan inauguration in 1981 to the turn of the century) can help sustain and develop comedy for the next few decades. Corporation and marketing brands will vie for this generation’s attention (read money) for as they are currently the coveted 18-34 demographic, but perhaps more importantly they become the next group of decision makers and comedy creators as they age, potentially making for a longtail effect of the craft.