The Beginnings of Written Literature Are Synonyms

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The origins of written literature go back to the oral tradition. Literature is a tool that allows us to make things, and it could have been used by humans as far back as hominectus. But there are two competing traditions of science being taught in different ways. And if we're willing to treat holy scripture like how you describe it, then there's a lot there that we can learn from even atheists, materialist scientists.

Michael speaks with neuroscientist and literature professor Dr. Angus Fletcher about 25 of the most powerful developments in the history of literature, from ancient Mesopotamia to Elena Ferrante. Fletcher says these literary technologies can alleviate grief, trauma, loneliness, anxiety, numbness, depression, pessimism, and ennui — all while sparking creativity, courage, love, empathy, hope, joy, and positive change. Fletcher is a professor of story science at Ohio State’s Project Narrative, the world’s leading academic think-tank for the study of stories. His research has been supported by the National Science Foundation, the Mellon Foundation, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.