The Cry for Myth

1. Myths are essential narratives that give meaning to human existence

A myth is a way of making sense in a senseless world. Myths are narrative patterns that give significance to our existence.

Defining myths. Myths are not mere falsehoods or superstitions, but powerful narratives that help humans understand their place in the universe. They provide a framework for interpreting life experiences, explaining natural phenomena, and grappling with existential questions. Myths transcend time and culture, offering universal truths about the human condition.

Functions of myths:

• Provide relief from neurotic guilt and excessive anxiety
• Explain the origins of the world and human society
• Offer models for human behavior and moral guidance
• Connect individuals to their community and cultural heritage
• Help people cope with life's challenges and uncertainties

Modern relevance. Despite scientific advancements, myths continue to play a crucial role in contemporary society. They manifest in various forms, from religious beliefs to popular culture, shaping our worldviews and influencing our decisions. Understanding and engaging with myths can lead to greater self-awareness and a deeper appreciation of human culture.

2. Personal crises and identity formation are deeply rooted in myths

We are concerned here with narratives which come up continuously in contemporary psychotherapy.

Myths in therapy. Psychotherapists often encounter patients whose personal struggles reflect archetypal mythic patterns. These narratives provide a framework for understanding and working through individual crises. By recognizing the mythic dimensions of their experiences, patients can gain new perspectives on their problems and find paths to healing.

Identity and myth. The formation of personal identity is intimately connected to the myths we internalize and live by. Our sense of self is shaped by the stories we tell about ourselves and our place in the world. These personal myths often draw on cultural archetypes and collective narratives, connecting individual experiences to broader human themes.

Examples of mythic patterns in personal crises:

• Oedipus complex: Struggles with parental relationships and authority
• Hero's journey: Overcoming obstacles and personal growth
• Prometheus: Rebellion against limitations and the pursuit of knowledge
• Narcissus: Self-absorption and the search for authentic self-love
• Orpheus and Eurydice: Loss, grief, and the limits of human power

3. The search for roots and community is a fundamental human need

We hear the cry for myth, sometimes a silent cry, on the campuses of our day. Science and Humanism must join together to respond to this cry.

Rootlessness in modern society. Many people in contemporary society feel disconnected from their cultural and historical roots. This sense of rootlessness can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and a lack of meaning in life. The search for roots is often an attempt to find a sense of belonging and purpose in an increasingly fragmented world.

Community and myth. Myths play a crucial role in building and maintaining communities. They provide shared narratives that bind people together, creating a sense of collective identity and purpose. In the absence of strong communal myths, individuals may struggle to find their place in society and form meaningful connections with others.

Responses to rootlessness:

• Genealogical research and family history exploration
• Revival of traditional cultural practices and rituals
• Creation of new communities based on shared interests or values
• Adoption of spiritual or philosophical belief systems
• Engagement with art, literature, and other forms of cultural expression that explore themes of identity and belonging

4. American culture is shaped by myths of individualism and success

The myth of success consoled us in the difficulties of struggling to "rise" to higher and higher positions.

The American Dream. The myth of individualism and success is deeply ingrained in American culture. It promises that through hard work and determination, anyone can achieve prosperity and upward mobility. This narrative has both inspired and burdened generations of Americans, shaping their aspirations and self-worth.

Consequences of the success myth:

• Emphasis on personal achievement over community well-being
• Tendency to blame individuals for systemic failures
• Persistent belief in meritocracy despite evidence of structural inequalities
• Glorification of wealth and celebrity status
• Neglect of collective responsibility and social welfare

Critiques and alternatives. While the myths of individualism and success have been powerful motivators, they have also been criticized for promoting selfishness, materialism, and social inequality. Some thinkers advocate for new myths that emphasize community, sustainability, and holistic well-being as alternatives to the narrow focus on individual achievement and material success.

5. The Faust legend reflects humanity's struggle with knowledge and power

Faust is a philosophical poem in that it centers on what life could be—its temptations, its catastrophes, and its joys.

The Faustian bargain. The story of Faust, who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge and power, serves as a powerful metaphor for human ambition and its potential consequences. It explores the tension between the pursuit of progress and the moral costs that may accompany it.

Versions and interpretations:

• Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus": Focuses on the dangers of hubris and the inevitability of divine punishment
• Goethe's "Faust": Presents a more nuanced view, suggesting that striving itself can be redemptive
• Thomas Mann's "Doctor Faustus": Uses the Faust legend to explore the cultural and moral crisis of 20th-century Germany

Modern relevance. The Faust legend continues to resonate in contemporary society, particularly in discussions about scientific and technological advancements. It raises important questions about the limits of human knowledge, the ethical implications of progress, and the potential for unintended consequences in our quest for power and understanding.

6. Creativity and evil are intertwined in the human psyche

The devil's reality lies in his opposing the laws of God, and this sets the dynamic necessary for all human experience.

Creative tension. The relationship between creativity and evil is complex and often paradoxical. Many artists and thinkers have found that engaging with the darker aspects of human nature can be a powerful source of creative inspiration. This tension between light and dark, good and evil, often drives artistic and intellectual exploration.

The role of the 'shadow'. Drawing on Jungian psychology, the concept of the shadow – the repressed, negative aspects of the personality – is crucial for understanding creativity. By confronting and integrating these shadow elements, individuals can tap into deeper wells of creative energy and self-understanding.

Examples of creativity and evil in myth and literature:

• Prometheus stealing fire from the gods
• Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
• Captain Ahab's obsessive pursuit of Moby Dick
• The temptation of Christ in the wilderness
• Lucifer as the fallen angel in Paradise Lost

7. Modern society needs new myths for survival and ethical guidance

We now do have a common enemy. It comes by way of our understanding this myth. The very technology for the destruction of our enemies also leaves us hostage to the destructive power we generate.

The myth vacuum. Many traditional myths have lost their power to guide and inspire in the face of rapid technological and social change. This has left a void in terms of shared narratives that can provide meaning and ethical direction in the modern world.

Potential new myths:

• Global interconnectedness and shared responsibility for the planet
• The exploration of space as a unifying human endeavor
• The integration of scientific understanding with spiritual wisdom
• The reimagining of human relationships with nature and technology
• The celebration of diversity and cultural exchange as sources of strength

Challenges and opportunities. Creating new myths that can effectively address contemporary issues while resonating with diverse populations is a complex task. However, the development of such myths is crucial for fostering a sense of shared purpose, ethical behavior, and hope in the face of global challenges like climate change, technological disruption, and social inequality.

Last updated: October 15, 2024