Narrative in Views of Humanity, Science, and Action: Lessons for Cognitive Therapy

The role of narrative constructs in philosophical views of humanity, science, and action is presented and contrasted with more familiar constructs that influence cognitive therapy. In terms of philosophical views of humanity, the view of human beings as rational animals is contrasted with a novel view emphasizing humanity’s unique storytelling nature. In terms of the philosophy of science, a positivistic, somewhat realist view is contrasted with a constructivist view in which narrative plays an essential role in explaining how theory succession takes place. In terms of the philosophy of action, partitive, ahistorical accounts of action are contrasted with a more holistic, historical view, one which necessitates narrative to account for actions intentionally oriented to the realization of an agent’s desires. The turn toward narrative in each of these areas also provides lessons concerning innovative ways to conduct cognitive therapy. In concluding, it is suggested that further investigation of narrative processes in cognitive therapy can broaden and deepen our understanding of the representational process undergirding adaptation and change.