The Stories Behind Our Favourite Things

Posted on 9 June 2017

A talk on the subject of the emotional significance of certain precious things in our lives

A group of researchers will discuss the results of a web-based survey looking at the significance of precious objects in our lives.

Using the survey submissions as a starting point, Taryn Bell, Dorothea Debus, Paul Mills and Penny Spikins will explore the theme of the story of things from three different but complimentary perspectives: philosophy, archaeology and poetry. How do objects which often have no economic value provide us with a sense of comfort? What stories lie behind significant objects? Can treasured objects help us to reduce stress and anxiety and improve wellbeing?

In addition to the talk, a new series of podcasts called The Story of Things starts soon. You can listen to the trailer at https://pure.york.ac.uk/portal/files/52094181/StorThingsTrailer_2.wav.

The free talk takes place at The Treehouse, Berrick Saul building (map|getting to campus) on Wednesday 14 June 2017 at 6.15pm.

Details about the talk can be found at http://yorkfestivalofideas.com/2017/talks/stories-behind-favourite-things/

Please fill out the survey at https://york.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6r6A3PIQuV6aRtX

Vist the website at https://sites.google.com/york.ac.uk/comfortingthings/home