Philosophy offers valuable insights for those seeking to lead a more meaningful life, yet the sheer volume of information available can often feel overwhelming. By returning to foundational concepts, such as Walter Benjamin’s philosophy and his reflections on storytelling, we can gain a clearer understanding of how these ideas can enrich our lives. This article examines Benjamin’s perspective on storytelling and explores how it connects to the broader philosophical aim of finding meaning and purpose.
Key features of Walter Benjamin’s philosophy
Walter Benjamin was a German philosopher known for bridging the gap between traditional philosophy and modern cultural critique. One of his key ideas was the “aura” of a work of art. He argued that traditional art, such as paintings, has a unique presence and history that give it a special, almost spiritual quality. However, with the advent of modern technology—like photography and film—art could be reproduced endlessly, losing this “aura.” This idea highlighted how mass production changed the way people value art and experience culture.
Another core aspect of Benjamin’s thought was his focus on history and memory. He believed that history should not be seen as a simple, linear progression. Instead, he proposed viewing it as a series of fragmented moments, each filled with meaning. He emphasized the importance of looking at the past critically to better understand the struggles and experiences of marginalized groups.
Benjamin was also fascinated by urban life, particularly the experience of wandering through cities—a concept he called “flânerie.” He explored how cities shape human behavior and thoughts, particularly in spaces like arcades or crowded streets. His philosophy combined an appreciation for art, a critique of modernity, and a deep concern with human experience, making his work highly influential in fields like literary theory, cultural studies, and philosophy.
What is storytelling?
Walter Benjamin viewed storytelling as an art form deeply rooted in human connection and tradition. He believed that storytelling was a way to share experiences, particularly those handed down from generation to generation. For Benjamin, storytelling was not just about narrating events; it was about weaving meaning and values into the stories, allowing listeners to apply them to their own lives.
He emphasized the oral nature of storytelling, considering it an interactive process that fostered a shared understanding between the storyteller and the audience. Unlike written forms of communication, Benjamin saw storytelling as alive and dynamic, shaped by the personal insights and emotions of the storyteller. This direct human connection, he argued, gave storytelling its richness and uniqueness.
Benjamin also noted that the rise of modern technology and mass media led to a decline in traditional storytelling. He believed these changes made personal interaction less central in the sharing of stories, reducing their depth and the opportunity for true, meaningful exchange. For Benjamin, storytelling was a way to preserve a sense of community and continuity, vital to the human experience.
An example that demonstrates this philosophical perspective can be found in Walter Benjamin’s reflections on storytelling. Imagine a village elder sharing tales with a group of attentive listeners beside a glowing fire. The elder recounts stories of past generations, weaving personal experiences with collective history. These tales are not just entertainment but pass down wisdom, lessons, and cultural identity to a younger audience. The oral tradition thrives in such a setting, creating a deep connection between storyteller and listener. The stories adapt to the nuances of the moment, shaped by the elder’s tone, gestures, and audience reactions. This type of storytelling carries a sense of authenticity, as the narrative evolves from lived experience. It emphasizes the communal act of sharing, fostering a bond that transcends simple narration. Such a scene vividly captures the essence of storytelling as rich, unique, and deeply rooted in human interaction.
Challenges to Walter Benjamin’s view about storytelling
Some philosophers object to or reject Walter Benjamin’s views about storytelling because they believe his ideas fail to account for the evolving nature of storytelling in modern contexts. One main criticism stems from the perception that his arguments overly romanticize older forms of oral storytelling while undervaluing or disregarding the significance of written and contemporary forms of narrative. Critics argue that storytelling, like all forms of human expression, adapts and evolves with societal changes. By focusing largely on a supposed “loss” of storytelling traditions, some contend that Benjamin does not fully appreciate how modern technology, literature, and other media have created new and vibrant forms of storytelling.
Another reason for disagreement is the assumption that Benjamin’s analysis of storytelling relies too heavily on nostalgia for pre-industrial societies. Philosophers who advocate for a more progressive view suggest that modern storytelling, through the use of digital media, film, and social platforms, has diversified and reached broader audiences in ways that were not possible in earlier times. They see this as a natural and positive evolution, arguing that rejecting modern storytelling frameworks limits our understanding of how stories are shared today.
Additionally, some philosophers challenge the prescriptive tone often inferred in Benjamin’s work, which they interpret as prioritizing specific forms of storytelling over others. This perspective has been critiqued as being overly rigid, as it overlooks the plurality and subjectivity of storytelling traditions across cultures and contexts. Critics emphasize that storytelling is not a fixed or singular practice but rather one with many expressions that reflect the variety of human experiences.
Finally, philosophers who focus on inclusivity point out that Benjamin’s framework may not consider the stories of marginalized people or cultures who have historically lacked access to traditional storytelling forums. These thinkers highlight that modern storytelling tools, like social media, have empowered individuals and groups to share their narratives more widely, challenging traditional hierarchies of whose voices are heard. By narrowing the scope of storytelling to specific historical ideals, they argue, Benjamin’s views miss the richness and diversity of contemporary storytelling practices.
Why storytelling is important to Walter Benjamin’s philosophy
These are some of the main reasons why grasping the concept of storytelling is crucial to comprehending Walter Benjamin’s philosophy.
- Storytelling Preserves Collective Memory
Storytelling is crucial to the preservation of collective memory, allowing communities to share experiences, traditions, and histories across generations. It creates a sense of continuity by connecting the past with the present. Through storytelling, people convey the knowledge and values of their society, ensuring that they are not forgotten. This process is vital not only for maintaining cultural identity but also for shaping how individuals understand their place in the world. Stories capture both the personal and the communal, making them a powerful tool for recording the lived experiences of people in a way that facts alone cannot.
- Storytelling Encourages Reflection and Understanding
When we engage with stories, we are prompted to reflect on the meanings and lessons embedded within them. Stories often provide a window into human emotions, moral dilemmas, and diverse perspectives, fostering deeper understanding. This reflective aspect of storytelling encourages people to think critically about their experiences and actions, as well as the experiences of others. By immersing themselves in narratives, individuals can interpret complex realities and connect with abstract ideas in an accessible and meaningful way.
- Storytelling Bridges the Individual and the Universal
Through storytelling, personal experiences gain universal relevance. When a storyteller shares their experiences, others may find connections to their own lives, even if they come from different backgrounds. This bridge between the specific and the general highlights the shared aspects of human existence. Storytelling enables individuals to see themselves within a broader context, demonstrating how unique moments are often part of wider human patterns. This connection reinforces empathy and develops a deeper appreciation of humanity’s shared struggles and triumphs.
Contrasting Walter Benjamin’s philosophy with Socrates’s philosophy
Walter Benjamin and Socrates both offer insights into storytelling, but their approaches highlight significant philosophical differences. Socrates, as seen through the dialogues of Plato, emphasizes the value of questioning, dialogue, and reason in the pursuit of truth. He prioritizes oral discourse as a means of engaging others in thoughtful debate and critical thinking, believing that knowledge is best obtained through active inquiry and discussion. Storytelling, in the Socratic view, can sometimes be seen as a vehicle for transmitting myths and traditional ideas, but it is secondary to rational exploration and direct engagement in philosophical inquiry.
On the other hand, Walter Benjamin examines storytelling not simply as a method for conveying information but as a vital, almost spiritual, process tied to human experience and memory. His perspective contrasts with Socrates’s focus on reason and argumentation by emphasizing the communal and emotional aspects of storytelling. While Socratic dialogue seeks clarity and truth through logical processes, Benjamin’s approach highlights the wisdom, morality, and creativity passed through narratives over generations. This focus on storytelling as a deeply human tradition underscores a divergence from Socratic philosophy’s reliance on structured dialectics, demonstrating how Benjamin values storytelling as a unique way of experiencing and interpreting the world beyond purely rational discourse. This difference underscores the blend of art, culture, and lived experience in Benjamin’s views, which sets his philosophy apart from Socrates’s rationalist ideals.
Storytelling, Walter Benjamin’s philosophy and the philosophy of life
Reflecting on Walter Benjamin’s ideas, regardless of whether one agrees with them, can serve as an invaluable exercise when crafting your own philosophy of life. His views act as a springboard for deeper contemplation about the role of storytelling, tradition, and authenticity in how we make meaning of the world around us. Even if you find yourself disagreeing with his arguments, grappling with his philosophy allows you to question your own assumptions and clarify your beliefs. This process of reflection challenges you to go beyond surface-level thinking, forcing you to consider how ideas shape not only individual lives but also collective human experiences.
Engagement with ideas like Benjamin’s enriches your personal philosophy by encouraging you to think critically about the narratives you tell yourself and others. Storytelling is such a fundamental human experience—shaping our identities, values, and choices—that taking the time to reflect on different viewpoints about it has practical significance. For instance, it can inspire you to think more intentionally about the kinds of stories you listen to, believe, or share and the impact these stories have on societies and relationships. It’s through this process of thoughtful interaction that you can build a more nuanced and adaptable way of approaching life.
Additionally, reflecting on philosophical ideas like these fosters intellectual humility and openness. Encountering differing perspectives broadens the scope of how you perceive the world and pushes you to evaluate your philosophy not as a static set of beliefs but as a dynamic, evolving process. Benjamin’s work can even encourage you to re-examine the value of ancient practices, oral histories, or forgotten traditions, helping you reconnect with elements of human experience that might otherwise seem distant or irrelevant in the modern age.
Ultimately, engaging with Walter Benjamin’s perspective on storytelling—and any philosophical thought rooted in careful analysis of human nature—offers more than academic value. It invites self-awareness, clearer thinking about your values, and a stronger connection to the complexities of life itself. Whether you adopt or reject his ideas, the act of reflecting on them sharpens your ability to identify purpose and meaning in your own evolving narrative.
Further reading
Benjamin, W. (1968). Illuminations (H. Zohn, Trans.). Harcourt, Brace & World. (Original work published 1955)
Benjamin, W. (1999). The Arcades Project (H. Eiland & K. McLaughlin, Trans.). Belknap Press.
Brodersen, M. (1997). Walter Benjamin: A biography (M. W. Jennings, Trans.). Verso.
Eiland, H., & Jennings, M. W. (2014). Walter Benjamin: A critical life. Belknap Press.
Gilloch, G. (2002). Walter Benjamin: Critical constellations. Polity.
Hansen, M. B. N. (2012). Cinema and experience: Siegfried Kracauer, Walter Benjamin, and the avant-garde. University of California Press.
Leslie, E. (2007). Walter Benjamin. Reaktion Books.
Lowy, M. (2005). Fire alarm: Reading Walter Benjamin’s “On the concept of history” (C. Turner, Trans.). Verso.
Steiner, U. (2010). Walter Benjamin and the aesthetics of power. Cornell University Press.
Wolin, R. (1994). Walter Benjamin: An aesthetic of redemption. University of California Press.