2Story—The Center of All Play

There is one common element of every human civilization, about as far back as we can tell. As a defining principle it is unsurpassed. As a method for organizing and motivating people, its effectiveness has been demonstrated over centuries. Even when ultimately proven wrong or displaced by something newer, the basic principle remains unchanged.

Of course, we’re talking about stories.

Play is all about telling stories. Stories form the basis of beliefs, and beliefs dictate actions. This may seem like a gross simplification, but it is nonetheless true. Consider everyone’s favorite holiday guy, Santa Claus. Belief in Santa has driven the toy industry for years. Approximately 70 percent of toy sales in the United States ...

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