The Storytelling Animal

The chapter discusses how religious narratives influence human cognition and behavior. Major world religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are built around narratives that prescribe ethical behavior and rituals, and offer comprehensive explanations about the origins and purpose of life. These narratives help cement societal norms and foster group cohesion, suggesting that storytelling is not just a cultural activity but an evolutionary adaptation critical for survival. Some theorists, like David Sloan Wilson, argue that religious narratives enhance group survival by promoting social cohesion and aligning behavior toward common goals. However, religious narratives also have the potential to exacerbate conflicts between different groups, illustrating the dual nature of storytelling’s impact on society.

Sacred Histories

The chapter examines how supernatural and national myths unify societies but often distort history. It uses the example of the narrative of Christopher Columbus taught in American schools, which celebrates him as a heroic figure without acknowledging the severe consequences of his actions on Indigenous populations. Historians like Howard Zinn criticize this practice as “determined forgetting,” where narratives are sanitized to foster national unity and pride at the cost of historical truth. The section debates the motivations of revisionist historians who are accused of romanticizing Indigenous cultures and vilifying Western history.