Smelling Culture: Exploring Fragrance, Perfumery, and the Social Dimensions of Scent
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61462/cujss.v53i2.2451Keywords:
smell, scent, Anthropology of Smell and scent, perfume, fragrance cultureAbstract
This article initiates a compelling inquiry, posing fundamental questions: How do various societies infuse scents with meaning? How do these olfactory elements influence social dynamics and intertwine with the complex human experience? It seeks to unravel these queries by delving into the intricate dynamics of scents across five distinct sections. The initial part explores the often-overlooked sense of 'smell,' revealing its concealed yet profound significance. The second section navigates through the captivating evolution of olfactory education, culminating in the application of systematic anthropological research methods. Moving forward, the third section meticulously examines diverse types of fragrances and perfumes, detailing their distinct characteristics, chemical components, and the methodologies employed to describe these attributes and processes. Then, the fourth section offers a concise yet comprehensive history of perfume. Finally, the fifth section immerses readers in the captivating realm of 'fragrance culture,' illustrating its vivid reflection of the interplay between scents and society. This inquiry illuminates the nuanced relationship between scent and human experiences, underscoring the need for amplified scholarly attention and comprehensive analysis within the enchanting universe of fragrances. Such exploration is indispensable for a more nuanced understanding of the diverse tapestry of human experiences.
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