Start the Week Smell – the underrated sense
May 5, 2025
Jonas Olofsson, a neuroscientist and author of 'The Forgotten Sense,' dives into the science behind our underappreciated sense of smell. Ali Lukes, a PhD in Olfactory Ethics, explores how aroma can reveal deeper meanings in literature and provoke societal discussions. Alan Chalmers, a professor focused on virtual reality, shares groundbreaking research on integrating smell into gaming for a more immersive experience. Together, they highlight the vital role of olfaction in memory, culture, and enhancing everyday experiences.
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Smell Misattributed as Taste
- Smell works through sniffing and retronasal perception during eating, which we often mistake as taste.
- This misattribution leads to undervaluing smell as a distinct and important sense.
Humans Are Good Smellers
- Humans are not poor smellers; the myth dates back to Aristotle's era, rooted in gender stereotypes.
- Humans have complex olfactory abilities surpassing many animals despite dogs' superior noses.
Smell Evokes Childhood Memories
- Smell-triggered memories often stem from childhood due to early olfactory system maturation.
- Other senses usually connect memories from later life stages like adolescence and early adulthood.
