Future of StoryTelling (FoST) Embodied Cognition and Sensual Media — Annie Murphy Paul, Revisited
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Aug 15, 2025 
Annie Murphy Paul, a science writer and author of The Extended Mind, dives into the intriguing realm of embodied cognition. She discusses how the brain is just one piece of the puzzle, emphasizing interoception and how bodily signals shape our emotions and empathy. Annie explores the importance of movement in enhancing creativity and learning, and why audience engagement matters in storytelling. Gestures as a form of thought and the power of immersive theater also feature prominently, highlighting creativity as a collaborative endeavor.
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Thinking Beyond The Brain
- Cognition extends beyond the brain into body, environment, and social relationships.
- Annie Murphy Paul argues we should draw intelligence from outside-the-brain resources to think better.
Body Signals Are Knowledge
- Interoception is our body's continuous internal signals that inform feeling and decision-making.
- Tuning into these signals gives access to stored nonconscious knowledge and guides action.
Emotions Are Built From The Body
- Emotions are constructed from bodily sensations rather than delivered fully formed.
- Those more attuned to interoception experience emotions more vividly because they sense the raw material of emotion.
