Storytelling and Collective Psychology - by Darren Kelsey (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This book examines the work of psychological illusionist Derren Brown to understand the significance of storytelling and ancient philosophy in our society. Reflecting on the social disconnection and political polarisation of recent times, Darren Kelsey considers how we can rebuild a sense of collective cohesion and common good, weaving together contemporary psychology with ancient Stoicism to cut through the noise of modern life. Kelsey shows that Brown is more than a stage performer: he's an enlightened magician who offers us guidance for navigating the challenges life throws at us, using his skills and wisdom to help us better understand ourselves and enable human flourishing. In this rigorous examination of Brown's work, Kelsey makes a compelling case for paying closer attention to our personal, cultural and political stories and beliefs to help create a better future - for ourselves, our communities, and the planet.

From the Back Cover

This book examines the work of psychological illusionist Derren Brown to understand the significance of storytelling and ancient philosophy in our society. Reflecting on the social disconnection and political polarisation of recent times, Darren Kelsey considers how we can rebuild a sense of collective cohesion and common good, weaving together contemporary psychology with ancient Stoicism to cut through the noise of modern life. Kelsey shows that Brown is more than a stage performer: he's an enlightened magician who offers us guidance for navigating the challenges life throws at us, using his skills and wisdom to help us better understand ourselves and enable human flourishing. In this rigorous examination of Brown's work, Kelsey makes a compelling case for paying closer attention to our personal, cultural and political stories and beliefs to help create a better future - for ourselves, our communities, and the planet.

"Darren Kelsey takes us on a powerful and erudite exploration of the role of narrative, myth and collective psychology in helping us to make sense of the world, our place in it and above all our own sense of who we are. As Kelsey sets out, the work of the illusionist Derren Brown is a fascinating example of how popular culture has taken on some of the important roles traditionally played by storytellers, orators and performers."

--Alex Evans, Founder of Larger Us and best-selling author of The Myth Gap

"Storytelling and Collective Psychology seeks to build bridges across disciplines. Via a range of fascinating and stimulating examples and case studies - most prominently, the psychological illusionist Derren Brown - Kelsey connects Stoic philosophy and modern psychology, revealing astonishing connections between Stoicism and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)."

--Paul Bowman, Professor of Cultural Studies, Cardiff University

"Storytelling and Collective Psychology is an original and timely book which combines popular and academic elements. Using examples from Brown's shows and books, the book merges his philosophy with Jungian Analytical Psychology and delves into the nature of what it means to be human in today's world.​"

--Helena Bassil-Morozow, Lecturer in Media and Journalism, Glasgow School for Business and Society

About the Author

Darren Kelsey is Reader in Media and Collective Psychology at Newcastle University's School of Arts and Cultures. Darren's teaching, research and previous publications have focused on storytelling, mythology and psychology in media, politics and popular culture. Darren currently lives in County Durham with his wife and daughter.