Knowing Pain: A History of Sensation, Emotion, and Experience

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 26 May 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Pain, a ubiquitous yet intricate phenomenon, transcends universal comprehension. Our personal pain and experiences, while profound, do not automatically grant us insight into the depths of others' past or present anguish. Despite the apparent self-evidence of a paper cut or the heart-wrenching desolation of heartbreak, pain possesses a distinct situatedness and historical specificity.

In his captivating work, which blends personal reflection with political urgency, Rob Boddice unveils a comprehensive history of pain. This multidisciplinary exploration employs a diverse range of approaches and languages to grapple with the most challenging aspects of pain research. Boddice delves into the intricate processes that shape painful experiences, broadening our understanding of pain to encompass its intricate connection with physicality, social and emotional suffering. Spanning from antiquity to the present, his narrative encompasses a wide spectrum of pain manifestations, including injury, grief, exclusion, chronic pain, and trauma. By examining knowledge claims about pain, Boddice uncovers the ways in which these narratives shape our perception of what pain truly is.

What sets "Knowing Pain" apart is its innovative and compassionate approach. Boddice presents an original pain agenda that resonates with individuals interested in the history of emotions, senses, and experience, as well as medical researchers and practitioners. This book is a must-read for anyone who has encountered the profound anguish of pain, as it offers valuable insights and a compassionate perspective on this complex and multifaceted phenomenon.

Weight: 538g
Dimension: 161 x 237 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509550548