Imagining the Past, Constructing the Future

This book explores the constructive and interconnected nature of remembering and imagining, viewing them as cognitive-affective processes that emerge at the border of the person and their socio-cultural world. It integrates theories of remembering and imagining through empirical studies in diverse cultural settings, focusing on the development of self and identity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 187 pages
Publication date: 18 February 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate realm of remembering and imagining, adopting a sociocultural, developmental, and dialogical lens to explore their constructive and interconnected nature. Viewed as cognitive-affective processes, both emerge at the crossroads of the individual and their socio-cultural world. Memory is approached as a functional adaptation to the environment, harnessing the resources of the past to prepare for action in the present. Imagination, on the other hand, shares a close relationship with memory, as both strive to transcend the limitations of the concrete present moment, albeit with different orientations. Both are intricately embedded in the exchanges with the social and cultural milieu, necessitating the reliance on key ideas from renowned scholars such as Lev Vygotsky, Frederic Bartlett, and Mikhail Bakhtin.

In pursuit of integrating these theories, the book embarks on a rich empirical journey, conducting extensive studies across diverse cultural contexts. These studies serve as the foundation for the book's two subparts, each contributing to a comprehensive understanding of remembering and imagining.

The first subpart explores the development of self and identity through the lens of remembering and imagining. It examines how individuals construct their sense of self and navigate the complexities of identity formation in the context of social and cultural influences. By examining the role of memory in shaping personal narratives, cultural heritage, and individual experiences, the book sheds light on the processes through which individuals develop a unique sense of self and identity.

The second subpart delves into the broader societal implications of remembering and imagining. It explores how these processes shape collective memory, cultural heritage, and social identities. By examining the ways in which memories are shared, contested, and transformed over time, the book offers insights into the dynamics of power, identity, and social change.

Through its comprehensive approach, this book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of remembering and imagining. It offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between the individual, society, and culture, highlighting the ways in which these processes shape our lives and contribute to the broader fabric of human experience. Whether you are interested in psychology, sociology, cultural studies, or simply seeking to deepen your understanding of the human mind, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the depths of remembering and imagining.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 163 x 243 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030641740
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020