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P36


Sensory knowledge and its circulation [EN] 
Convenors:
Lydia Maria Arantes (University of Graz)
Elisa Rieger (University Graz)
Location:
Jakobi 2, 438
Start time:
1 July, 2013 at
Time zone: Europe/Tallinn
Session slots:
3

Short Abstract:

This panel offers the opportunity to reflect on the role of sensory perception in accumulating knowledge within ethnographic fieldwork, focusing on how humans - in the research process as well as in everyday life - gather and circulate sensory knowledge.

Long Abstract:

This panel proposal takes the conference call as an opportunity to reflect on the role of sensory perception in accumulating knowledge within ethnographic fieldwork. Assuming that circulations of sensory knowledge - in the process of research as well as in everyday life - require a preceding process of gathering experiences before they can be articulated, this panel asks especially about the ways sensory knowledge is described, shared and passed on. The role of the body in this regard is not merely one of being a tool of the mind but of much rather being a source of knowledge itself (Pink 2009). As the ethnographer completely immerses into the field studied, an integral approach to ethnographic practice therefore not only needs to give voice to sensory perception but also to the knowledge obtained from that.

We particularly invite authors to contribute to our panel who reflect on the role of sensory perception in their research on sociocultural practices as varied as dancing, crafting or meditating, etc. How does the body come to know and how can this knowledge be shared and passed on? Moreover, we welcome papers which discuss how disruptions of already known ways of perception are dealt with. Which role does trial-and-error learning play and what are its consequences for passing on embodied knowledge? Can patterns of knowledge circulation be identified? Finally, which methodological implications arise from addressing sensory knowledge in ethnographic practice? And where are the limitations of this kind of methodological approach?

Accepted papers:

Session 1