The sense of smell is a core aspect of the human experience. For thousands of years scent has helped us to understand and navigate our environment, attract or avoid others, learn and remember, and make meaning. On a fundamental level, our sense of smell is one way the human psyche experiences itself and the world around us.

But there are many questions to uncover.  Why do some people love a certain smell that others find repulsive? Why do particular aromas stimulate visceral memories? And why do some scents elicit strong emotions, such as pleasure or disgust? The connection of scent to our emotions, memories, and social relationships demonstrates the power of aromas. In a profound sense, aromas are part of who we are.

This course focuses on six facets of the psychology of scent: Sensation & Perception; Emotions; Memory; Imagination; Meaning; and Social/Cultural Scents.