Synesthesia and the Senses

This chapter demonstrates that synesthesia offers a window into our understanding of the human experience and thus serves as a potent lens through which we can investigate human well-being. It turns to the question of what sensory experiences and documentation related to our senses offer to a neurocultural perspective. Recent analyses have revisited long-standing debates and added scientific analyses to our understanding of this topic and synesthesia. Synesthesia research shows that there are possibly over one hundred forms of synesthesia and that the range of the research includes imprinting as well as epigenetic and environmental factors. Moreover, quantitative studies are enhanced by anecdotal self-reports and artistic projects that communicate the experience. Data from the clinical and nonclinical populations also show that the mix includes lifelong synesthetes as well as those who have lost or acquired synesthesia. The compilation of contemporary and historical research demonstrates that synesthesia speaks to the idea that there is no “typical” human mind, brain, or body. Also emphasized is that synesthetic artwork and metaphors form a large and inspirational overlay to our cultural milieu, giving it a depth of expression that greatly enhances our mutual experiences.