Fictions that become reality, fictions to modify reality

Abstract

In this paper, we propose that fiction is not only a false way of referring to the social reality or a ruse for the construction of imaginary worlds. On the contrary, we understand fictions as a human capacity highly productive in the construction and organization of the social world, a capacity widely disseminated in this world. We started giving an overview on some discussions in social sciences on the issue of fictionality. After that, we rescue the notions of “real fiction” and “fictional expectations” to address the productive character of fiction, with special emphasis on its temporary reference. We conclude by studying the social practice of "to act as if the fictional was real" to discuss its implications in one of the most productive uses that has had in contemporary Chile: the notion of "permanent kidnapping" proposed by Judge Guzman to challenge legal order established by 1978 Amnesty Law.