What does neuroscience tell us about the effect stories have on the brain?

Essentially our brains run on electrical pulses, and when we hear stories our brains light up. Neuroscientists have this saying that neurons that fire together, wire together. Paul Zak, is that stories trigger the release of oxytocin in much the same way. Stories make us remember and they make us care.

What is the science behind storytelling?

Scientists are discovering that chemicals like cortisol, dopamine and oxytocin are released in the brain when we’re told a story. By sharing and listening to each other’s stories, we all get a little bit closer to what’s true. Ultimately, storytelling is about the exchange of ideas, about growth – and that’s learning.

Why inspiring stories make us react the neuroscience of narrative cerebrum?

It seems that once we are attentive and emotionally engaged, our brains go into mimic mode and mirror the behaviors that the characters in the story are doing, or might do. As social creatures we are biased toward engaging with others, and effective stories motivate us to help others.

What happens in the brain when we hear stories?

Stories bring brains together By knowing someone’s story—where they came from, what they do, and who you might know in common—relationships with strangers are formed. We have identified oxytocin as the neurochemical responsible for empathy and narrative transportation.

What does this tell you about the power of narrative?

The secret is out: narrative is powerful. A narrative can entertain, inform, and persuade — but most importantly, it can forge deep, meaningful, and lasting connections.

What is the trade name of synthetic oxytocin used in the research of Paul J Zak?

Pitocin
To demonstrate that oxytocin caused trust-related behaviors, I had to get oxytocin safely into human brains. Synthetic oxytocin (trade name Pitocin) has a very safe drug profile; intravenous Pitocin is regularly used to speed up labor. But the evidence indicated that little or no intravenous oxytocin enters the brain.

Why are narratives so powerful?

Telling stories is one of the most powerful means that leaders have to influence, teach, and inspire. What makes storytelling so effective for learning? For starters, storytelling forges connections among people, and between people and ideas. Stories convey the culture, history, and values that unite people.