Since ancient times, humans have used the nose to soothe fears, choose leaders, alter consciousness, and lure mates. We all have certain smells that remind us of different people and places that have touched us. This book explores the nose through overlapping social lenses: anthro. and art, science and lit., sickness and health, sex and fertility, appearance and pop culture, mythology and memory. Takes readers on a tour across the spectrum of human history, culture, and emotion. Charts the shifting significances of the nose across different geographies, ethnicities, and time periods. Profiles extraordinary people, such as a physician at the Mayo clinic who has a controversial theory about chronic sinus disease.

A learned and lively examination of our most primal organ.