The science of synaesthesia: Understanding our senses

How does the brain make sense of the world around us? 

For most of us, our senses, sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, seem separate. But in reality, they work together in complex ways.

Some people experience synaesthesia, where senses blend in remarkable ways, like tasting words or seeing colours when hearing music.

Join cognitive psychologist Mary Jane Spiller as she discusses how our senses interact, why some people experience synaesthesia, and what this reveals about perception, memory, attention, and the vividness of our inner worlds.

Discover how this rare condition offers powerful insights into the workings of the human brain.

By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and agree to the Ri's event terms and conditions.

Event image by cottonbro studio via Pexels