Whatever the right hemisphere of the brain is wired with, it doesn't easily lend itself to hard logic, even when objective information is presented before it.
Yes, it can process facts and data, given enough context and emotional meaning to connect them. But I think this is more so because of one's existential need for meaning and connection that transcends pure rationality.
Suppose I happen to be presented with statistics showing my chances of success at something are virtually zero. Say, rugby sports.
Even though it's mathematically impossible, it's a bit of human nature to still hope ardently and find reasons to believe anyway. At least, that's what this part of my brain tries to excel at.
Also makes you wonder how true these “mathematically impossible” conclusions are from a more human or experiential point of view.
In some ways, clinging to the improbable because something deeper than logic tells us to could be a superpower when directed with purpose and persistence.
But how much we can push the limits of objective reasoning is a different question altogether. How much can a singular will defy the odds?
A Grand Unified Theory
Our "make it make sense" era is arguably defined by the obsession to quantify, measure, and explain everything. This is a prelude to a type of existence where everything can be explained via a grand unified theory, I've heard.
I doubt I'd still be convinced as most of this explanations will be coming from a limited understanding of the whole and not just the raw experience of being.
Not that we shouldn’t seek clarity, but this noticeable undercurrent of being constantly pressured to do so is not always natural, it’s exhausting, so to speak.
Stories offer something different.
There’s something intrinsically exciting about storytelling, as it doesn’t require any analytical effort on the part of the listener. It compellingly engages their attention and bypasses the rational filter altogether.
A story doesn’t demand that you process it logically or defend it rationally. It just unfolds with the quiet confidence that understanding doesn’t always arrive through logic.
For the most part, pure logic isn’t sticky enough compared to "emotional truth" or lived experience.
I suspect that’s why stories stay with us, since they make us feel first, and think later.
Rather than imposing its message, a story invites readers/listeners to make up their own mind and draw their own conclusions.
Just don’t take it too far and lose touch with reality. Reality itself probably is a meta-story depending on the narrator.
Human mind seeks significance as much as if not more than it seeks accuracy. Stories are the vehicle for that significance.
Thanks for reading!! Share your thoughts below on the comments.
Posted Using INLEO
You're right about stories staying with us because they make us feel first inviting an emotional touch to our mind,brain and subconscious altogether.
Yes, when we grow much older and start living more inside the mind, this effect is still present but not that strong compared to when we're children.
Thanks for stopping by :)