Bio Mapping is a tool for gathering biological data
about our body. It uses a bio sensor which logs our physiological arousal
level in conjunction with a Global Positioning System which locates our position
on earth. As you walk around the city, these two devices combine to create
personal, emotional maps that record the exact positions of where on earth
we feel relaxed or aroused.
The finger cuff sensor records changes in our galvanic skin response which
are said to indicate emotional states. The sensor is based on the polygraph
or lie detector test but the data recorded is for our own personal interpretation
rather then external monitoring.
After returning from their walk the participants see their own Bio Map
and discuss how it relates to their experience. If they wish, they can share
the data of their walk with the rest of the participants in order to construct
a communal map that visualises where in the city the group feel most relaxed
or aroused.
Bio Mapping is a continuation of the 1960’s
concept of psychogeography – a personal emotional geography that can
be explored and recorded by drifting through the city. Bio Mapping
extends this idea by providing a way to aggregate this subjective information,
creating a new kind of intersubjective data.
Will other people’s experiences allow us to engage
differently with our environment?
Christian Nold
April 2005
www.biomapping.net
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