POD: Future in the Humanities EP 1/3 - Exploring the COVID-19 Pandemic's Impact on Human Connection
Wits University researchers Sahba Besharati and Victoria Williams discuss cultural perceptions of contact, pandemic-induced changes and the long-term effects on social relationships and mental health.
Future in the Humanities is special three-part podcast mini-series exploring the vital role and future of the Humanities. Welcome to it!
Created in celebration of Wits University’s centenary, this eclectic capsule series explores key issues at the intersection of the humanities with neuroscience, social media and the gig economy.
Episode 1/3 - Touching Brains overview:
In the opening episode of this series, titled Touching Brains, Wits University research collaborators Sahba Besharati and Victoria Williams let us in on their multidisciplinary exploration of the complex impact of COVID-19 on human interaction and touch.
Featuring insights from various studies and discussions around the experiences of parents and caregivers during the pandemic, Andile Masuku (host), examines the significance of physical contact, the resilience of human beings and the potential long-term effects of altered social interactions.
Key themes:
- Perception of touch across societies: We pose the question: Is touch perceived differently across cultures? This episode examines how various societies interpret and engage in physical contact, influenced by factors like cultural norms and societal structures.
- COVID-19 and proximity: We discuss how the pandemic has reshaped perceptions of proximity and touch, as health protocols and safety measures have altered traditional practices and interactions.
- Humanities and neurosciences connection: The episode connects the humanities and neurosciences, demonstrating that a greater understanding of localized experiences can enhance rather than challenge universal principles. Most of the world is not 'WEIRD' (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic), yet much research in fields like psychology and neuroscience has historically been conducted in WEIRD contexts. This raises questions about the applicability of such research to diverse populations.
- Resilience of families: Despite the challenges, we explore the resilience of families in fostering connections during the pandemic and how lockdowns may have strengthened bonds.
- Long-term implications of touch: We address the significance of touch in maintaining social relationships and contemplate the potential long-term effects of social deprivation on mental health and development.
Learn more:
Click here to discover the ongoing research and work being conducted in the field of humanities and neuroscience by visiting the Wits Neuroscience Research Lab.
Connect and engage on social:
African Tech Roundup: Linkedin and X
Andile Masuku: Linkedin and X
Listen to the full series:
Production credits:
Produced by Andile Masuku and Iginio Gagliardone
Co-produced by Brendan "Spike" Ballantine
Written and hosted by Andile Masuku
Recording, editing, sound design and mixing by Brendan "Spike" Ballantine
Editorial Note: The Future in the Humanities podcast mini-series is made possible through support from the Faculty of Humanities at the University of the Witwatersrand. Views expressed by the host and contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of African Tech Roundup or the University of the Witwatersrand. All rights reserved by the University of the Witwatersrand.