Cambridge Phd on Body Odour goes viral

Viral Thesis Links Body Odour with Social and Racial Constructs: A recent PhD dissertation has set the internet ablaze, not for its academic rigor but for its unusual focus. A Cambridge scholar shared her research on the intersection of body odour and social constructs, sparking widespread debate on social media. While the topic has intrigued some, it has also faced criticism for its perceived lack of real-world applicability. The dissertation titled “Olfactory Ethics: The Politics of Smell in Modern and Contemporary Prose” delves into how smell influences societal structures like race, class, and gender, offering a fresh lens on an often-overlooked subject.

Since there is some confusion about the nature of my research, here is the abstract for my PhD thesis, which I hope will provide more context for anyone interested in learning more about my work! pic.twitter.com/eN9OsldQ2E

— Dr Ally Louks (@DrAllyLouks) November 29, 2024

The Thesis: Smell as a Social Construct

The thesis positions smell as a critical yet understated aspect of social discourse, arguing that literature provides a valuable medium to explore the “olfactory imagination.” The research spans multiple areas, including how odour is used to signal class hierarchies, gender roles, and racial stereotypes. The first chapter, for instance, examines homelessness and class dynamics through the works of George Orwell and other media portrayals, presenting a layered analysis of how smell influences perceptions of poverty and privilege.

By investigating the cultural and societal implications of odour, the thesis asserts that body odour serves as a potent metaphor for inclusion and exclusion, power dynamics, and identity formation. It further explores how odour can perpetuate stereotypes or challenge established norms.

The Internet Reacts: Divided Opinions

The scholar’s announcement of her PhD completion on social media went viral, garnering millions of views and thousands of comments. However, the responses were polarized. Critics questioned the academic and financial value of the research, dismissing it as irrelevant “academic jargon.” Many pointed out the perceived frivolity of using resources on a topic that seems disconnected from pressing global issues. Others mocked the research for being too niche, implying it holds little to no value for broader society.

On the other hand, a smaller but vocal group defended the scholar, emphasizing the importance of academic freedom and the pursuit of unconventional topics. They argued that the thesis contributes to understanding subtle forms of oppression and social bias, often overlooked in mainstream discourse.

Contextualizing the Criticism

The backlash against niche academic studies like this one raises questions about the broader perception of academia. Critics often target such research for being disconnected from “real-life” concerns, reflecting a growing disconnect between academic institutions and the general public. The criticism also underscores a larger debate about public funding for higher education and the role of academia in addressing tangible societal issues.

In the case of this particular thesis, the scrutiny seems intensified due to its focus on body odour—a subject many find trivial or humorous—despite its broader implications on power structures and identity politics.

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Cambridge Phd on Body Odour goes viral

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