Intelligence Squared

Do We Have More than Five Senses?

Jan 16, 2023

Join Ashley Ward, a Professor in Animal Behaviour at the University of Sydney and author of *Sensational: A New Story of Our Senses*, as he dives into the complexities of human and animal senses. He explores fascinating findings about how sounds can evoke strong emotions, why colors affect feelings, and the extraordinary vision of the mantis shrimp. Uncover insights into overlooked senses like balance and interoception, and discover how smell plays a crucial role in cultural connection and emotional well-being.

43:03

Episode guests

Ashley Ward

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

3min

Unraveling the Extraordinary Vision of the Mantis Shrimp

2min

Exploring the Depths of Human Senses

14min

The Duality of Sound: From Distress to Universal Harmony

4min

The Power of Smell: Linking Culture and Connection

13min

Exploring Interoception and Its Impact on Mental Health

4min

Why does the world appear different when we’re in love? How can one colour make us feel anger and another calm? Why do sounds like chewing and yawning cause emotional distress for some people? Aristotle said that there were five senses but scientific research suggests that there could be many more than that, with some studies claiming that there are up to 52. On this episode we’re joined by Ashley Ward, Professor in Animal Behaviour at the University of Sydney. In discussion with zoologist and broadcaster Lucy Cooke, he explores some of the fascinating findings in his brand new book, Sensational: A New Story of Our Senses, and the mechanisms at the heart of how we navigate the world.

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