The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos The Sweet Smell of Happiness
12 snips
Feb 5, 2024 In this engaging talk, neuroscientist Rachel Herz, an expert in the sense of smell and author of 'The Scent of Desire', unpacks the fascinating link between scents and our emotions. She reveals how certain odors, even those deemed unusual, can trigger happiness and fond memories. Herz discusses cultural differences in scent perception and its remarkable influence on attraction and well-being. The conversation also highlights techniques to enhance our sense of smell for better mental health, emphasizing its importance in our daily lives.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Skunk Anecdote
- Rachel Herz enjoys the smell of skunk due to a childhood association with her mother's positive remark about the smell.
- This early experience shaped her perception of the otherwise unpleasant odor.
Learned Smell Associations
- Smell preferences are learned, shaped by personal experiences and cultural contexts. These learned associations determine whether we perceive a smell as positive or negative.
Smell Intensity and Perception
- Smell intensity, influenced by individual genetics and experiences, affects perception. Higher intensity often leads to negative perception, even for generally liked smells.
