Vote for My Story: Political Narratives and the 2012 Election

From David’s slaying of Goliath to Shakespeare’s murderous version of Richard III to Washington’s chopping down a cherry tree, stories have been used throughout human history to teach lessons, establish social values and condense complex problems. Scholars are gaining new insights into why these stories have so much power, learning how and why our brains are “wired” to perceive the world through digestible narratives. A panel moderated by Marty Kaplanand featuring three distinguished thinkers, George Lakoff, John Romano and Joyce Appleby, will explore these issues just prior to the 2012 national elections, shedding light on how stories shape our political understanding.

Narratives are not something new in American politics. From “Honest Abe’s” rise from log cabin to White House to Ike’s Kansas boy turned war hero, stories have been used to translate societal and political complexities into familiar, archetypal narratives that embody and communicate cultural values. 

Event participant Dr. George Lakoff has expressed hope for a “New Enlightenment” in which we will be self-aware of our cultural narratives, and “discuss what they might be, to raise the question of what influence they have, and whether we can or should put them aside.” The panelists will discuss the nature of stories and whether a better understanding of political narrative can help make sense of our current political culture. The evening will be enriched and enlivened by movie clips, photos and political ads that will serve as examples and catalysts for the discussion.