Not-So-Classic

We all know the lame old jokes and quips that have been around since dirt. What we can't seem to figure out, however, is why people keep using them. And I think you know the kind of ancient half-humour I'm talking about:

"Give me a second."
"Okay: one. Second's up."

Classic jokes, these are not; they have just been around for a long time, and not because they were particularly good. No, nobody finds them funny anymore. Plus, I mean, if you're on the receiving end of one of these blasts from the past, what do you say to something in response? Can you combat fire with fire?

"Oh, you're so funny, I forgot to laugh."

Then suddenly, you've just responded in kind. Now don't you feel cool. Loser.