“Narrative allows us to communicate the emotional content of our values. Narrative is not talking “about” values; rather, narrative embodies and communicates those values. It is through the shared experience of our values that we can engage with others; motivate one another to act; and find the courage to take risks, explore possibility, and face the challenges we must face. Public narrative, understood as a leadership art, is thus an invaluable resource to stem the tides of apathy, alienation, cynicism, and defeatism. Stories, strategically told, can powerfully rouse a sense of urgency; hope; anger; solidarity; and the belief that individuals, acting in concert, can make a difference.” – From Publisher

Access Resource

Read chapter by Marshall Ganz – Public Narrative, Collective Action, and Power – pgs. 273 – 289

Explore Further

Read whole book – Accountability Through Public Opinion: From Inertia to Public Action, Edited by Sina Odugbemi and Taeku Lee (Washington, DC: The World Bank)
“This book contains a compilation of contributions to a workshop in November 2007, “Generating Genuine Demand with Social Accountability Mechanisms,” held in Paris, France, as well as specially commissioned articles and case studies from experts from development practice and academia.This publication is divided into eight sections: foundations; structural context; information and accountability; building capacity through media instructions (media and journalism); deliberation and accountability; power and public opinion (mobilizing public opinion); case studies; and conclusion.” – From Publisher