Kertomustiedettä

Kertomustiedettä, often translated as narrative science or the science of storytelling, is an interdisciplinary field that examines the nature, structure, and function of stories across various contexts. It draws upon methodologies and theories from literature, psychology, linguistics, anthropology, sociology, and cognitive science to understand how humans create, consume, and are influenced by narratives.

At its core, kertomustiedettä seeks to identify universal patterns and principles that underlie storytelling, regardless of the medium or culture. This includes analyzing plot structures, character archetypes, narrative devices, and the ways in which stories convey meaning, evoke emotions, and shape our understanding of the world. Researchers in this field often investigate how stories are used to transmit knowledge, build social cohesion, construct identities, and even persuade or manipulate audiences.

The study encompasses both fictional and non-fictional narratives, from ancient myths and epic poems to contemporary novels, films, news reports, and personal anecdotes. By understanding the cognitive and emotional mechanisms involved in processing stories, kertomustiedettä contributes to fields such as education, marketing, therapy, and artificial intelligence, where the power of narrative is increasingly recognized and utilized. The goal is not simply to appreciate stories, but to scientifically explain their fundamental role in the human experience.