Liz Neeley, Executive Director of Story Collider, dives into the art of storytelling in science communication. She shares how personal narratives can enhance understanding and challenge stereotypes about scientists. The conversation explores the ethics and power of storytelling, especially in addressing diverse identities and experiences. Liz highlights a paleontologist's discovery to illustrate narrative transportation's immersive nature and also discusses the impact of sharing personal stories on identity, especially in difficult social contexts.
Scientific storytelling engages listeners cognitively and emotionally, leading to attitude shifts and perspective taking.
Diversifying science stories challenges stereotypes, signals inclusivity, and enriches public understanding of the scientific community.
Deep dives
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.
Diversifying Science Stories and Representation
Liz Nealey highlights the importance of diversifying science stories and representation. Historically, science narratives have been dominated by a narrow group, primarily white men from Western countries. Liz emphasizes the need to amplify stories from underrepresented groups in science to challenge outdated stereotypes and demonstrate the diversity of scientific perspectives and experiences. By showcasing a wide range of scientists and their stories, science communication can signal inclusivity, break hierarchical norms, and enhance public understanding of the scientific community's richness.
The Full Humanity in Storytelling
Liz Nealey shares how storytelling allows scientists to be seen for their full humanity. Traditionally, scientists have focused on presenting a narrow, polished version of themselves, emphasizing their work and accomplishments. However, storytelling helps illustrate the complex and diverse aspects of scientists' lives. By embracing their full selves and sharing personal stories, scientists can humanize themselves and connect with the audience on a deeper level. This holistic approach to storytelling in science communication fosters empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the multifaceted individuals behind the science.
Encore episode. Storytelling can be a powerful tool to convey information, even in the world of science. It can also shift stereotypes about who scientists are. We talked to someone who knows all about this — Liz Neeley, the Executive Director of Story Collider, a nonprofit focused on telling "true, personal stories about science."