Abstract: A socket for mounting an electrical device such as an ordinary incandescent light bulb and enabling the electrical device to be switched to either its "off" condition or its "on" condition in response to touching the socket housing or any part of the structure electrically connected to the socket housing. All electrical components required to effect this switching of the power to the electrical device are mounted within the socket housing. The socket is usable with alternating current electrical power, and switching of the power to the electrical device occurs only when the voltage is passing through its zero point, thus avoiding current surges and lengthening the life of the light bulb or other controlled electrical device.