summary of an academic resource
1. Constance Classen’s 1993 monograph The World of the Senses: Explorations in History and Cross-Cultural Research stands as a seminal work in sensory anthropology and cultural studies. Through detailed historical and ethnographic case studies, the book systematically argues that sensory experience is not a purely neutral physiological phenomenon, but rather a profoundly cultural construction. The author challenges the hegemony of “visual centralism” within Western modernity, revealing that distinct “sensory regimes”—hierarchies, cultural valuations, and social applications of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch—exist across different cultures and historical periods (such as medieval Europe, the Andaman Islands of South America, and the Desana society). Krashen points out that these sensory modes shape how people perceive the world, organize society, construct worldviews, and even exercise power, thereby powerfully demonstrating that sensory history is an indispensable part of human cultural and intellectual history.
2. “Worlds of Sense” provides the essential theoretical foundation for my multisensory documentary project on Philadelphia, elevating my personal practice of collecting sensory memories into a profound “urban sensory ethnography.” The work powerfully argues for the cultural construction of sensory experience, guiding me to move beyond purely visual narrative and instead critically explore the unique “sensory models” and “sensory signatures” within Philadelphia’s diverse communities. Through dimensions of sound, smell, and touch, it reveals the city’s cultural stratifications, historical transformations, and social power dynamics, thereby transforming my project from a personalized artistic expression into a multisensory exploration with deep cultural critical significance.
3. This week, I’ve been focusing on finding inspiration by watching short films and paying attention to their editing techniques and use of music. I’m still developing my project concept and want it to explore a deeper social issue, though I haven’t settled on a specific topic yet. I’m also thinking about possibly creating a multisensory art installation alongside the short film to make the experience more immersive for the audience. Next week, I plan to continue refining my ideas, narrow down a central theme and find more academic resources.