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Sonic Coexistence. Toward an inclusive and uncomfortable atmosphere

In Mandic, D., Nirta, C., Pavoni, A., Philippopoulos-Mihalopoulos, A. (eds.) Hearing, The Westminster Law and the Senses series, Issue 4, Westimnister University Press, 2023 

This chapter investigates urban atmosphere through the sonic environment. Exploring the centrality of sounds in shaping people’s everyday experiences and taking into account the affective intensities emerging from such experiences, it mobilises the notion of ‘affective atmosphere’ as the product of the interaction and mutual influence between humans, non-humans and matter.

Within this framework, the chapter introduces the concept of ‘sonic coexistence’ as a speculative space where a new understanding of disturbing sounds can help shaping a more inclusive urban environment. It argues that sonic coexistence, rather than inviting a passive acceptance of other bodies’ voices, cries or vibrations, can inspire a critical encounter between distant species as well as diverse – and often conflicting – social and cultural formations.

The chapter finally claims that, by resonating with disturbing sounds – by attuning to affective atmosphere – humans’ listening practice can unfold new political possibilities towards a multi-species sonic ecology. It supports the idea that exercising a political imagination informed by sound and listening can orient individuals as well as institutions to approach uncomfortable sounds and uncanny atmosphere toward a shared and inclusive sonic environment.

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