New Books in Psychology Jeremy Stolow, "Picturing Aura: A Visual Biography" (MIT Press, 2025)
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Jun 20, 2025 Dr. Jeremy Stolow, a communication studies professor and interdisciplinary researcher, dives into his groundbreaking book on auras. He discusses how auras have been visualized from the late 19th century to today, highlighting the interplay between belief and technology. Stolow explores Kirlian photography's role in understanding auras and its cultural and medical implications. The conversation also touches on the impact of visual media on psychology and how aura imagery weaves through alternative medical practices, blending art, science, and spirituality.
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Serendipitous Book Sparks Research
- Jeremy Stolow discovered an early 1970s book with remarkable Kirlian photography images by chance in a used bookstore.
- This sparked a 13-year global research journey exploring aura visualization through media and technology.
Auras Real Through Pictures
- Stolow argues we do not need to confirm if auras 'really exist' to study their cultural and visual presence.
- Pictures of auras are real and significant regardless of their scientific legitimacy.
Aura Imagery's Deep Roots
- Auras have a deep visual iconography ranging from religious halos to technical images surrounding human forms.
- Modern aura images adapt ancient imagery into new technical visual practices that carry cultural meaning.