When We Touch — the science of why touch matters with author and professor, Dr Michael Banissy (MDE527)

Michael Banissy BSc, MSc, PhD is a Professor and Head of Psychological Science at the University of Bristol. An expert in social interactions and relationships, Michael has worked as a social neuroscientist for over ten years. He studies affection, communication, empathy, sleep, and touch. He's author of a timely book, "When We Touch, Handshakes, Hugs, High Fives and the new science of why touch matters" (Hachette). In this conversation, we discuss his route to becoming an expert of touch, his associated interest in empathy, the role of touch in our upbringing, insights into the effects of the policies of the Covid pandemic, and how we all have different touch profiles and personalities.