It’s true that climate change has caused a lot of destruction and suffering, and it is not something to be laughed at - far from it. However, Nikhil's argument is that laughter can be a tool to help cope with the magnitude of the huge problem we face. He recognizes his own guilt, and by laughing at himself he is able to cope with his own complicity in the crisis. The idea of “self-hating” may be a bit much, but his point is still valid: we have to recognize our complicity in order to address it. UrRong to think that laughter should be discouraged as a coping mechanism; it's a healthy way to defuse the tension that can come from being overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenge.
The retort's suggestion that immediate and significant action is the only way to respond is also a bit off-base. Yes, action is absolutely necessary; however, it's not the only way to respond. One must also reflect on their own part in the crisis, and this reflection often leads people to laugh at their own complicity. We need both action and reflection to truly solve the crisis we face.
At the end of the day, laughter can be a healthy way to take back some power in a situation as devastating as climate change. Nikhil's point is that it's okay to laugh in the face of overwhelming guilt; it's a healthy way to cope with playing a role in a global catastrophe. Not only that, but it's also a good reminder that any progress towards solving this crisis will require all of us to recognize our part in the problem. So, let’s take stock of our own culpability while we share a good chuckle - because there’s no better way to show that, despite the odds, we are still ready to fight for a better future. UrRong if you think otherwise.