The science of storytelling

"Like language, religion and music, stories are found in all cultures: they are part of what makes us human. Much of our conscious thought takes the form of an internal narrative in which we try to understand ourselves and our actions. We tell stories to make sense of the world, to communicate, and to influence and manipulate other people.

Now researchers' efforts are starting to reveal how stories affect us mentally and physically. As well as throwing new light on human psychology their discoveries have practical potential: to generate more compelling movies and more effective institutions, and possibly even to keep us safe from attack."
via New Scientist/ continue reading