The Forum
What makes us nostalgic?
May 17, 2025
Agnes Arnold-Forster, a medical historian and author of 'Nostalgia: A History of a Dangerous Emotion,' joins nostalgia researcher Krystine Batcho, who created the Nostalgia Inventory, and Tobias Becker from the Free University of Berlin, author of 'Yesterday.' They explore nostalgia’s evolution from a malady to a source of comfort, the role of scents in memory, and its implications in politics. The conversation also touches on how the digital age enhances our longing for the past, revealing nostalgia's complex emotional landscape.
49:27
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Quick takeaways
- Nostalgia has evolved from a 17th-century ailment associated with homesickness to a recognized emotional response that fosters reflection on positive memories.
- Sensory experiences play a critical role in triggering nostalgia, connecting individuals to significant past moments that shape their identities.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Nostalgia
Nostalgia was first identified as a medical condition in the 17th century, seen as a form of homesickness particularly affecting Swiss individuals. Over time, its perception shifted from a serious malady to a more benign, even positive emotion associated with longing for the past. By the 19th century, nostalgia was increasingly viewed as a psychological condition affecting emotional well-being rather than physical health. This evolution highlights how nostalgia has transitioned into a common sentiment that allows individuals to reflect on positive memories rather than just lamenting what has been lost.
