Jonathan Gottschall

Join literary scholar Jonathan Gottschall as he unpacks the vital link between storytelling and evolution. He argues that stories serve as cultural technology, preserving vital information across generations. Salman Rushdie contributes with insights on magical realism, blending the real with the fantastical to deepen human connections. They discuss how well-constructed fictional worlds require internal logic and coherence. The conversation also touches on how fiction can provoke change and the impact of immersive technologies on storytelling's future.

Jonathan Gottschall, a distinguished fellow at Washington & Jefferson College and author of "The Story Paradox," dives into the powerful world of storytelling. He highlights how narratives can inspire but also manipulate, illustrating this through examples like climate change and the Theranos scandal. Gottschall emphasizes the ethical responsibilities that come with storytelling in business, advocating for honest narratives that foster connection rather than division. His insights reveal the dual nature of storytelling as both a unifying tool and a potential catalyst for conflict.

Jonathan Gottschall, an English professor turned MMA fighter, discusses the allure of violence and masculinity. The conversation delves into the roots of male aggression, the role of combat sports in channeling aggression, and the evolution of male violence. Exploring the complex relationship between violence, honor, and masculinity, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the biological and cultural aspects of male aggression.