The Nature of the Sense of Smell

Dr. Luca Turin talks about his theory that the smell of substances is based upon the frequencies of vibration of their molecules. Turin developed this theory of the sense of smell and provided scientific support. He discusses his studies from both the practical and theoretical points of view.
Recorded August 24th, 2006
Sponsored by: University of Alaska Southeast
Produced by: UAS Video Production Services
© 2006 University of Alaska Southeast
Running Time: 1 hour, 12 minutes

[@Fournier46]

Saw the image in the side bar and went: "Is that Luca Turin?" *click... reads description "It is Luca Turin, yaaaaayy!."

[@clsi8d]

Thanks for sharing this video, very much appreciated!

[@mickimicki]

The EU restrictions Turin is talking about are mostly concerning NATURAL substances, like tree moss and certain citrus oils. (For example bergamot oil, which is what gives Earl Grey its aroma.) In fact as a result of these restrictions is that "natural" components are replaced with "chemical" substitutes. And I'm sure nobody would propose to ban strawberries or chamomile even though many people are allergic. So, Turin isn't making fun of people's allergies but of those restrictions.

[@sashi128]

is it possible that allergies cause a deficiency in perception of a smell?

[@streetlif9]

makes sense. i almost didn't catch the pun.

[@cohenalicia1]

It is unfair to dismiss allergies to synthetic fragrance. If you don't suffer from it it won't bother you. If you have chemical sensitivity, it can be profoundly oppressive. At lest be respectful of others' experience. Clearly you have a financial interest in dismissing the problems of people who have negative responses to synthetic fragrance which makes your scientific opinion dubious.