The Important Lessons Stories Teach Us

Stories are models of the world. They enable empathy and give us the opportunity to learn and understand more about others. But, well-constructed narrative can also compel us to think and act differently. A recent study on the neurobiology of storytelling revealed stories which developed tension in their narrative caused audiences and readers to share the characters’ emotions and, even after the story is over, continue to feel and even mimic the behaviour and emotions of the characters. This explains why we might be compelled to be kinder after reading a book featuring a particularly altruistic character or feel braver