Centred on an understanding of the senses as interactionally configured between people and the ways in which people themselves experience the senses—how they build and negotiate meanings between each other about what is being sensed, what the social implications of the senses are, and how these might relate to sets of activities or interests—it brings together a range of case studies to show how talk, gesture, and various aspects of the physical environment can be mobilised to make the senses accountable to others.
Presenting the latest developments in interactionist research on the senses, Sensing Life will appeal to social scientists with interests in interactionist sociology and related approaches to research, and social understandings of the senses.
Will Gibson is a Professor of Interactional Sociology and Qualitative Research Methodology at the Institute of Education at University College London, UK. His research concerns interaction and communication in diverse areas of practice, including education and professional contexts. Technology and, increasingly, affect and sensing are central areas of concern in his work.
Natalia Ruiz-Junco is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Auburn University, USA. Her research interests include social theory, social interaction, emotions/affect, and sustainability.
Dirk vom Lehn is a Professor of Organisation and Practice at King's Business School at King's College London, UK. His research focuses on the analysis of social interaction across various settings, including museums, optometric consultations, dance lessons, and street markets.