The Science Behind Storytelling

The Power of Storytelling in Science Communication

Liz Nealey, the founder of Story Collider, discusses the importance of storytelling in science communication. Initially skeptical, Liz recognized the significance of narratives in helping people make sense of the world and understand scientific concepts. Studies in health communication demonstrate that stories are more relatable, engaging, and effective in conveying information compared to lists of facts. One key reason for the power of storytelling is narrative transportation, where listeners become fully immersed in a story and engage cognitively and emotionally. This engagement allows for perspective taking and attitude shifts, influencing how people think about a topic. Neuroscience research shows that storytelling activates various brain networks and creates echoes of memories and future projections in both the speaker and listener. Liz emphasizes the ethical use of storytelling, respecting the audience and ensuring that stories reflect broader truths rather than cherry-picked outliers.