Ruptures as Imagined and Theorized: Symbolic Resources for Dealing With the Unexpected

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Narrative Theory

Background:

• Rupture theories view crises as opportunities for learning and development.
• Narratives (myths, novels, films) offer multi-functional ways to engage with crises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationship between theories of rupture and narratives of rupture.
• To analyze how narratives function as symbolic resources during crises.
• To propose a model for understanding narrative's role in navigating ruptures.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of rupture theories and narrative structures.
• Development of a formal model illustrating narrative functions in rupture.
• Examination of narrative limitations and meta-cultural guidance.

Main Results:

• Narratives and rupture theories share a common sequence: steady state, breach, crisis, and transformation.
• Narratives help pre-imagine crises, identify warning signs, support problem-solving, and narrate experiences.
• Narrative guidance can be limiting and sometimes suggests ignoring cultural norms.

Conclusions:

• Narratives of rupture are not mere mirrors but active tools for navigating crises.
• A model demonstrates how narratives facilitate pre-imagination, early detection, problem-solving, and post-rupture narration.
• The limitations of narratives necessitate meta-cultural guidance, sometimes advising to disregard cultural advice during ruptures.