Telling to Understand: The Impact of Narrative on Autobiographical Memory

This book explores the link between memory, thought, and narration, and how the act of telling helps people understand themselves and others. It divides into two parts: the first part focuses on narrative comprehension, and the second part studies narrative understanding as an understanding of the other. It concludes with a consideration of narrative comprehension in the digital world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2021
Publisher: Springer

This captivating book delves into the intricate connection between memory, thought, and narration, shedding light on the profound role that storytelling plays in helping individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Structured into two compelling parts, the first part explores the realm of narrative comprehension, focusing on the individual as the narrator. It identifies two distinct origins of narrative comprehension: memory and play. It argues that the narratives we create, starting from our autobiographical memory, serve the purpose of giving order and meaning to past events, enabling us to interpret the present. In contrast, narratives derived from play are aesthetically constructed, allowing for the exploration of potential new worlds of understanding.

The second part of the book delves into narrative understanding as an understanding of the other. Chapters examine the various perspectives a listener can adopt to interpret the text produced by a narrator, and how these perspectives can interact and influence each other. The book concludes with a thoughtful exploration of narrative comprehension in the digital world, examining the profound effects of stories and narratives on the notion of self within the vast "Internet galaxy."

Telling to Understand is a valuable resource for researchers and students in cognitive science, psychology, literary studies, philosophy, education, and educational technology. It also appeals to any reader with a keen interest in expanding their understanding of narrative and the transformative power of narrating on the self. By unraveling the complex interplay between memory, thought, and narration, this book offers a rich tapestry of insights that will captivate and inspire readers of all backgrounds.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030431631
Edition number: 2020 ed.