How narratives shape how we perceive and adapt to reality, and why it matters to our well-being

Narratives are not neutral; they are framed to convey values, ideas, habits, behaviors, ways of organizing society and the economy, political systems, and civilizational paradigms. Influential groups, organizations, institutions, and governments use the power of narratives to manipulate public perception, manufacture consent, and divide and rule. From Edward Bernays, "the father of public relations," to the present, the PRIC (public relations industrial complex), including the infotainment industry, has been committed to influencing ordinary citizens to make choices and support projects, people, groups, organizations, institutions, and governments that go against their best interests.