The sense of smell and sexuality

Abstract

The investigations of the erotic effect of perfumery materials or of perfume compositions could succeed only to the extent that the evaluators were able to judge to which of two perfumes a stronger erotic effect could be ascribed. It turned out that those concerned could, after having received some brief comments regarding the purpose of the test, intuitively orient themselves and give usable judgements which were, of course, purely subjective. Since it was the author’s intention that the comparisons be conducted on an intuitive basis, scientific arguments regarding the physiological and psychological conditions and relationships required for the generation and recognition of an erotic sensation were not given. However, knowing these conditions and relationships is interesting not only for its own sake but also because it provides the basis for an understanding of any observed erotic or anti-erogenous effects of perfumes or perfume materials.