Interview: Will Storr, author of The Science of Storytelling, on how great stories persuade and inspire action

The novel is set in a northwestern Castilian city in the mid-16th century, where Protestant dissenters were active despite the strictures of the Inquisition. It follows the life of Cipriano Salcedo, who becomes entangled in the secretive local Protestant society led by Doctor Cazalla. Cipriano's journey involves proselytizing, supervising the printing of anti-papal documents, and expounding his beliefs, ultimately leading to his condemnation as a heretic and his fate at the hands of the Holy Office.

In 'The Unpersuadables', Will Storr embarks on a journey to understand why some people cling to extreme beliefs despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Storr interviews individuals holding controversial viewpoints, from Holocaust deniers to climate change skeptics, seeking to uncover the psychological roots of their convictions. He explores the roles of identity, emotion, and social influence in shaping these beliefs, revealing the complex interplay between reason and irrationality. The book delves into the cognitive biases and defense mechanisms that reinforce deeply held views. Through his encounters, Storr challenges readers to confront their own biases and consider the limits of human reason. Ultimately, 'The Unpersuadables' offers insights into the nature of belief and the challenges of changing minds in a polarized world.