“To make the tree it takes the seed”. Collective writing as a pedagogical practice to stimulate dialogue and listening

Abstract

In contemporary consumer societies, young people are continually exposed to dominant master narratives
that construct idealized identities and lifestyles, exerting subtle yet powerful pressure to conform.
These strategically crafted cultural scripts, reinforced by an intolerance for error and imperfection,
undermine the development of dialogical and critical thinking skills essential for democratic engagement.
This theoretical contribution, grounded in a critical-emancipatory framework, explores key
master narratives shaping our cultural landscape. It proposes critical literacy paths as a pedagogical
strategy to counter their influence and empower youth to reimagine a more inclusive and genuinely
democratic society.