Barry C. Smith

Barry C. Smith is a Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Institute of Philosophy at the University of London’s School of Advanced Study. He also directs the Centre for the Study of the Senses, fostering interdisciplinary research between philosophers, neuroscientists, and psychologists. His research focuses on multisensory perception, particularly taste, smell, and flavor, with applications in food science and industry consultation. Smith holds the AHRC Leadership Fellowship for the Science in Culture Theme and has held visiting roles at Berkeley, Simon Fraser University, and the École Normale Supérieure in Paris. His work bridges philosophy with empirical science, addressing topics like consciousness, language, and sensory experience. He has authored/co-edited pivotal works such as The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Language and Questions of Taste: The Philosophy of Wine.

Smith’s media contributions include BBC Radio 4 series like The Mysteries of the Brain and The Uncommon Senses, as well as appearances on Masterchef and Inside the Factory. He collaborates with chefs and artists, advising the food and beverage industry. His research projects include the SSHRC-funded Network for Sensory Research (collaborating with Toronto, MIT, Harvard, and Glasgow) and studies on sensory substitution, perceptual categorization of whiskies, and olfactory dysfunction in diseases like long-COVID.

His awards include the AHRC Leadership Fellowship, and he leads initiatives promoting public engagement with philosophy and science. Smith’s teaching and mentorship focus on bridging theoretical philosophy with empirical research, though no specific advisees are listed here.