The Narrative Possiblity of Peace and Understanding

Abstract

With its emphasis on action and new possibilities opened by imagination, Paul Ricœur’s narrative theory offers insights to understanding each other in a world of polarized views. His theory is helpful in describing the potential that narrating has in shaping and reshaping the course of action and the possibility for peace. Taking narrative as leading towards peace and understanding makes us attentive to listening to the narratives and those that narrate. While confronting the narrative, one is invited in the world of that text (or that speech). This is possible through imagination. Narrative reveals other points of views than our own. Often it increases empathy and opportunities for reconciliation.

Keywords

• Ricoeur
• narrative
• imagination