How Stories save us from desperation: A Lacanian perspective




In the fabric of human experience, stories are not just diversions; they are lifelines. They weave meaning into the chaotic tapestry of existence, offering a semblance of order amidst uncertainty. Like the timeless simplicity of children’s tales, these narratives shield us from the despair that arises when we confront the raw and unfiltered reality of our condition. Yet, this isn’t a trivial function—it's deeply rooted in the structures of our psyche and society, as explored by profound thinkers such as Martin Heidegger and Jacques Lacan.

The Necessity of Stories: A Philosophical Lens

Heidegger's Confrontation with Nothingness

Martin Heidegger observed that anxiety stems not from specific fears but from a profound confrontation with ‘nothingness’—a void that exposes the fragility and transience of human existence. This state, far from being mere discomfort, lays bare the inevitability of mortality and the uncertainty of our being. The stories we create, according to Heidegger, can act as distractions, allowing us to avoid authentic confrontation with this truth. Alternatively, they can be tools to engage with and accept the finite nature of life, leading to a richer, more grounded existence.

Lacan's Symbolic Order and the Role of Narratives

Jacques Lacan, meanwhile, delves into the construction of identity within the symbolic order—the domain of language, culture, and societal norms. For Lacan, our sense of self is inherently fractured, defined by a “lack” (manque) that drives us to seek completion. Narratives, therefore, are more than comforting stories; they are scaffolds for identity, shaping how we navigate this void. By filling the gaps of our perceived incompleteness, they offer temporary relief, even as true totality remains forever out of reach.

Stories in Action: From Populism to Religion

Populism and the “Lack of Having”

Consider populist rhetoric. Economic downturns or societal anxieties are reframed into simplistic narratives that externalize blame—immigrants, elites, or foreign powers become scapegoats. These stories thrive on the Lacanian “lack of having,” suggesting that our lost stability, security, or prosperity can be regained by eliminating the supposed threat. It’s a compelling, albeit reductive, answer to complex realities.

Religion and the “Lack of Being”

On the other hand, religious beliefs address the “lack of being.” Faced with the randomness and suffering of existence, many turn to the idea of a divine plan. This belief can fill the existential void with purpose, offering a framework where life’s chaos is imbued with meaning. Trusting in a benevolent higher power alleviates the terror of mortality and provides a path to existential comfort, albeit at the cost of critical autonomy.

The Double-Edged Sword of Lies

These narratives, whether political, religious, or personal, offer solace but come with risks. They can become rigid dogmas, leading to conflict when challenged. The grip of these stories on our identity often makes questioning them feel like an attack on our very essence. Wars, persecutions, and even interpersonal disputes can stem from these perceived threats.

Yet, abandoning the stories entirely exposes us to the abyss of unmitigated reality—a prospect many find intolerable. This delicate balance highlights the dual nature of lies: they save us from desperation but risk ensnaring us in illusions.

Toward a Humble and Kind Approach to Truth

So, how can we live without succumbing to lies or falling into despair?

  • Embrace Humility

Acknowledge that all beliefs are provisional and subject to error. This humility fosters openness to alternative perspectives and reduces the rigidity of dogmatic thinking.

  • Cultivate Critical Thinking

Constantly question the stories you tell yourself and others. Engage with complexity and nuance, resisting the allure of overly simplistic explanations.

  • Practice Kindness

Recognize that others may rely on their narratives to navigate life’s challenges. Approach these differing beliefs with compassion, understanding their role in alleviating personal suffering.

  • Seek Inquiry Over Certainty

Adopt the Socratic method of questioning. By prioritizing exploration over rigid conclusions, you can navigate the uncertainties of existence with intellectual and emotional resilience.

Final Thoughts

Life’s narratives—whether grounded in myth, ideology, or personal belief—serve as both anchors and veils. They help us endure the weight of being, even as they obscure the fullness of reality. A Lacanian perspective doesn’t demand that we abandon these stories but invites us to hold them lightly, aware of their role and limitations. By doing so, we can confront existence with humility and grace, bridging the gap between truth and the lies that sustain us.

© Copyright Max Segali, 2024

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