Narrative framing is a powerful tool that shapes how people perceive morality and inclusion. It refers to the way stories are told, which can be influenced by various factors such as culture, personal experiences, and societal norms. When individuals read or hear about events, they interpret them through their own lens, leading to different opinions and perspectives.
When reading a story about an act of kindness, some might see it as a moral action while others might consider it selfish. Similarly, the same event could be viewed as inclusive for one group but exclusive for another based on preexisting beliefs and values.
In this essay, I will explore how narratives affect our perceptions of right and wrong and whether certain groups are excluded from participating fully in society.
Moral judgments
Stories have long been used to shape moral judgment. The Bible, for example, uses narratives to teach lessons about good and evil. In modern times, movies and books use plots to convey messages about ethics. One famous example is "To Kill a Mockingbird," where Atticus Finch defends Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, despite social pressure to do otherwise. By portraying him as a brave and just man who stands up against racism, readers learn that equality is a virtue worth fighting for. This message resonates with many viewers because it challenges traditional notions of justice and fairness.
There's also a danger of using narrative framing to reinforce stereotypes or biases. Take the popular trope of the wicked stepmother, found in many classic tales such as Cinderella and Snow White. These stories present women as cruel and manipulative figures who seek to harm their stepdaughters for personal gain. While these stories may be entertaining, they can create negative attitudes towards stepmothers and contribute to discrimination against them.
Exclusion
Narrative framing can also influence how people perceive inclusivity.
Media often portrays certain groups negatively by emphasizing their differences rather than commonalities. A recent study showed that news coverage of immigrants tends to focus on crime rates, while ignoring other aspects like contributions to society. Such reporting can lead to xenophobic attitudes and policies that exclude immigrant communities from full participation in public life. Similarly, LGBTQ+ individuals are often depicted as outsiders or sexual deviants, which can reinforce prejudice and exclusion.
Some stories highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion. "Black Panther" explores the theme of black pride through its characters, showcasing African culture and values. The movie became a box office success, demonstrating that audiences crave representation and want to see themselves reflected in media. Other examples include "Rainbow High," a doll line featuring diverse bodies and skin tones, and "The Fault in Our Stars," which features two teens with cancer falling in love despite societal expectations about illness and disability.
Narrative framing plays an essential role in shaping perceptions of morality and inclusion. It's important for storytellers to use this tool responsibly, considering the potential consequences of their messages. By critically examining our biases and assumptions, we can create more nuanced and inclusive narratives that reflect the rich complexity of human experience.
What role does narrative framing play in shaping perceptions of morality and inclusion?
Narrative framing refers to the way stories are presented or conveyed to an audience and can influence their understanding of events and characters within the story. In literature, film, and other forms of media, narrative framing is often used to shape the viewer's perceptions of characters and their actions. The same concept applies to real-life situations where individuals may perceive events differently depending on how they are presented.