Zed
Science 52'

ONCE UPON A TIME: THE SCIENCE OF STORIES

From cave paintings to contemporary blockbusters via mythology, telling stories has always been a fundamental part of our humanity. But why exactly do we love stories so much?

 

Today, neurologists, psychologists and historians are opening up exciting avenues of research on the subject. Whether listening to a podcast, watching a movie or contemplating a painting, stories exert a profound impact on our brains and emotions. What’s more, they have played a decisive role in the evolution of our species! Some specialists claim they helped us emerge from prehistoric caves and forge societies.

 

Alongside international experts, we’ll examine the profound and complex transformations that fiction can bring about in us, proving that humans are true storytellers.

Direction: Vincent Amouroux

Production: ZED for ARTE France

Delivery: November 2025

Languages: French, English

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