Stories for a better future: The power of myth in philosophy, urban ecology and politics

The use of “narrative” has long been a common and effective strategy for shaping the attitude of human beings to the future. Strong arguments, empirical facts and abstract models often lack the power to alter people’s minds or impact their decisions. Hence, alongside reason or logos, the ancient form of mythos has been and remains a powerful facilitator of transformative future-oriented change: stories propel us towards the future.

In our transdisciplinary project we will explore and question perspectives from philosophy, urban ecology and political science pertaining to the power, potential, and challenges of using stories for a better future. What role does storytelling, play in classical political thought? How should we conceptualize the complex relation between political emotions triggered by myth and democracy? Could a new form of “eco-mythology” close the gap between values and action? Does a better future require the telling of new place-based, ecological myths? And, if so, what could they look like?

Our workshop series will bring together students from three seminars (‘Storyscapes’, ‘Hobbes and Rousseau’ and ‘Political Emotions’) to raise foundational questions in philosophy, politics and design and to examine compelling examples of imaginative future-oriented storytelling in Stuttgart.

Guests are welcome at three ‘Stories for a Better Future’ events: 

28.11.2025, 18:00, Küstlerhaus Stuttgart

Discussion | Politics, Ecology & Art

11.12.2025, 19:00, Küstlerhaus Stuttgart

Filmscreening | Princess Mononoke (Film von Hayao Miyazaki)

30.01.2026, 14:00 – 18:00, Künstlerhaus Stuttgart

Transdisciplinary Workshop | Stories for a Better Future