The Storytelling Animal

Gottschall suggests that stories act as a tool for social cohesion through shared values and common experiences: “Story—sacred and profane—is perhaps the main cohering force in human life. A society is composed of fractious people with different personalities, goals, and agendas. What connects us beyond our kinship ties? Story” (137). This statement underlines his view that narratives, whether they are rooted in cultural myths, religious tales, or secular stories, allow diverse individuals to find common ground.

Gottschall discusses the ways in which stories contribute to the construction of collective memory and historical identity. He argues that narratives about a community’s past do not only record history; they also actively shape it. These stories become part of a shared cultural heritage, influencing how communities perceive themselves and their place in history. By revisiting historical events through stories, communities can reaffirm their values and identity, which in turn helps to solidify a collective understanding of the past, present, and future. This process is dynamic, allowing narratives to adapt as society evolves while maintaining a sense of continuity with the past. For instance, national myths often serve as powerful tools that reinforce a unified national identity: “Throughout most of our history, we’ve taught myths. The myths tell us that not only are we the good guys, but we are the smartest, boldest, best guys that ever were” (125). However, Gottschall points out that these narratives can also be contentious, as different groups may have competing versions of the past that reflect their own perspectives and experiences. The interpretation and emphasis of historical events can lead to debates about identity and values.

Furthermore, Gottschall explores the role of stories in defining and reinforcing social norms and behaviors. He illustrates how narratives, particularly fictional ones, transmit societal expectations, shaping individuals’ thoughts and actions by providing clear examples of what is deemed acceptable or unacceptable within a community. This aspect of storytelling is particularly evident in moral tales or fables, which often conclude with a lesson intended to guide behavior. Yet these behaviors are most certainly not always positive. Gottschall notes that “the musical stories that Hitler most loved did not make him a better person. They did not humanize him, soften him, or extend his moral sympathies beyond his own in-group. Quite the opposite” (153). Storytelling’s role in shaping social norms and behaviors can be used for good or ill.

Gottschall also highlights the dual nature of narratives as tools for both social control and resistance. While stories can reinforce existing social structures and norms, they also provide a means for questioning and challenging those norms. Individuals and groups can use narratives to push back against dominant cultural narratives by offering alternative perspectives or advocating for change. This is seen in how modern storytellers tackle issues like social justice, inequality, and environmental concerns, using narratives to raise awareness and inspire action. For example, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States leveraged powerful narratives about justice, equality, and human dignity that challenged prevailing social norms and contributed to significant legal and cultural changes. Similarly, contemporary social movements often rely on personal stories and shared experiences to challenge the status quo and mobilize support.

Gottschall shows how stories are essential for connecting individuals, shaping social norms, and fostering a unified cultural identity––for better or for worse. His insights reveal that the power of storytelling extends beyond individual entertainment or education to the core of human social structures.