Future in the Humanities EP 1/3: Touching Brains

Future in the Humanities EP 1/3: Touching Brains

Author: African Tech Roundup September 26, 2024 Duration: 27:00
In the opening episode of the Future in the Humanities podcast mini-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: Discover the ongoing research and work being conducted in the field of humanities and neuroscience by visiting the Wits Neuroscience Research Lab: https://www.witsneurl.com 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

For nearly a decade, the African Tech Roundup Podcast has served as a vital listening post for anyone serious about understanding the continent's digital transformation. Hosted by co-founders Andile Masuku and Musa Kalenga, this long-running series moves beyond surface-level headlines to foster genuine, substantive dialogue. Each episode convenes a dynamic mix of startup founders, venture capitalists, policymakers, and established tech leaders, creating a unique space where strategy, critique, and opportunity intersect. The conversations you'll hear are unfiltered and forward-looking, grounded in local realities while maintaining a necessary global outlook. Tuning into this podcast means gaining access to the nuanced discussions that shape Africa's technology, business, and entrepreneurship landscapes from the ground up. It’s less about hype and more about the hard questions, the lessons from both failures and successes, and the collaborative thinking required to build sustainably. If your work or curiosity is connected to Africa's economic future, African Tech Roundup provides the context and clarity often missing from mainstream coverage, making it an indispensable resource for informed perspective and actionable insight.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

African Tech Roundup Podcast
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Episode overview:Seyi Ebenezer didn't come to fintech from a hackathon or an accelerator. He came from KPMG's audit desks and Access Bank's corporate finance floors. These are environments where the numbers had to add up…