Jonathan Gottschall is een literatuurwetenschapper die de complexe relatie tussen evolutie en literatuur onderzoekt. Zijn werk duikt in klassieke verhalen en bekijkt deze door de lens van de evolutionaire psychologie om te ontdekken hoe fundamentele biologische drijfveren het vertellen van verhalen kunnen vormgeven. Hij pleit voor de integratie van kwantitatieve methoden in de geesteswetenschappen, suggererend dat deze aanpak progressieve, cumulatieve kennis over de menselijke natuur en cultuur kan bevorderen. Gottschalls onderscheidende perspectief biedt een innovatieve manier om de verbinding van literatuur met wetenschap te begrijpen.
The journey of an English professor into the world of mixed martial arts delves into the intricate relationship between violence and masculinity. As he trains, he uncovers the historical and scientific underpinnings of combat, reflecting on the cultural significance of physical aggression. This exploration not only challenges his intellectual boundaries but also prompts a deeper understanding of the human condition and the complexities of male identity.
Storytelling, a tradition that built human civilization, may soon destroy it
Explores the latest beliefs about why people tell stories and what stories reveal about human nature, offering insights into such related topics as universal themes and what it means to have a storytelling brain.
This study offers a fresh perspective on Homeric conflict by applying principles of modern evolutionary biology. It examines the underlying motivations and behaviors of characters in Homeric texts, exploring how these ancient narratives reflect fundamental aspects of human nature and social dynamics. By bridging classical literature with contemporary scientific insights, the book provides a unique framework for understanding the complexities of conflict in both historical and modern contexts.