An Introduction to the Science of Storytelling
Psychologists and neuroscientists have known for decades that storytelling has remarkable benefits on our cognitive and emotional health. It helps us remember information, focus attention, build empathy, and more.
It’s only recently, however, that a few scientists have begun to piece together a comprehensive theory of storytelling. Brian Boyd, author of On the Origin of Stories, puts it into an evolutionary perspective. He asks the question: Why would any two people tell a story when both teller and told know it plainly to be false?
It’s a provocative question. We tend to think of stories as entertainment. Boyd asks - what’s the advantage to the species?
In this episode, Joseph Sarosy reviews some of the recent research on storytelling, outlines a simple method to begin telling stories today, and shares why diverse storytelling may be vital for the future.
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Photo by Magdalena Smolnicka on UnSplash
