Mythcœur

Author: editor

  • The Gods Are Not Dead – They migrated into systems and symbols

    In the realm of mythology and religion, gods have always played a pivotal role in shaping human culture and understanding. As time progresses, one might wonder: are the gods of old still relevant in our current age? According to many scholars and cultural theorists, the gods are far from extinct; they have simply evolved, keeping pace with modern society, manifesting themselves within our systems and symbols.

    While traditional worship of deities like Zeus or Osiris might have waned, the essence of these gods lives on in the symbolism deeply ingrained in our culture. Joseph Campbell, the esteemed mythologist, once said, “Myths are public dreams, dreams are private myths.” In a sense, our collective dreams continue to invoke gods, though the forms may have changed from individual deities to more abstract representations.

    From Olympus to Order

    The shift from myth to mechanism does not signify loss but transformation. Consider how the ideals embodied by ancient gods manifest in modern institutions. The god of commerce, Hermes, may not be receiving sacrifices at a temple, but his spirit thrives within our bustling markets and the virtual trades of Wall Street.

    • Justice: The scales of Themis, the Greek goddess of justice, are echoed in the courtrooms worldwide.
    • War and Strategy: Ares and Athena’s legacy can be found in military strategies and competitive enterprises.
    • Technology: Hephaestus, god of blacksmiths and invention, finds his likeness in the ceaseless innovation of the tech industry.

    The transmutation of gods into systems suggests that they represent not entities to be worshipped but ideals and forces to be engaged with. These forces shape societal structures, pushing humanity toward achievement and progress.

    Symbols as Modern Deities

    Beyond systems, symbols represent another way gods have adapted to modern life. Powerful symbols like brands and logos have taken on mythic proportions, becoming objects of reverence and identity in the digital age. In an article from HuffPost, it was noted that “Logos represent more than just brands; they signify lifestyles and societal statuses.”

    “The old gods never died; they just evolved into logos.” – Contemporary Cultural Analyst

    Indeed, the migration of gods into systems and symbols posits a compelling idea: human fascination with divine representation has not diminished but diversified. While the gods may no longer reside on Mount Olympus, their influence permeates through every institution, technological advancement, and influential idea. The symbolism of yesteryear has not perished but found new ground in the vast expanses of human progress.

    In our search for meaning and structure, the gods remain a powerful metaphor for the dynamics that govern human civilization, echoing the truth that while deities may change form, their impact on the world persists.

  • Mythical Time vs. Clock Time – Living outside the algorithm

    Mythical Time vs. Clock Time – Living outside the algorithm

    In an era dominated by schedules, digital alerts, and the incessant tick-tock of clock time, a burgeoning interest in mythical time invites us to pause, reflect, and potentially redefine our relationship with time itself. But what exactly is mythical time, and how does it differ from the algorithm-driven clock time that governs our daily lives?

    The Concept of Mythical Time

    Mythical time is often described as a realm where the linear progression of past, present, and future dissolves, allowing a more fluid and often symbolic interpretation of time. This concept takes inspiration from ancient cultures and narratives where time was not measured by minutes and hours but rather by events, rituals, and the natural cycles of life.

    Mircea Eliade, a Romanian historian of religion, philosopher, and professor at the University of Chicago, describes mythical time as “a primordial time, a sacred time, a mythical time.” Through this lens, time is experienced in a more cyclical and eternal manner, facilitating a deeper connection to moments of significance.

    “In the modern world, time has become a limited commodity, something to be utilized efficiently and often traded for productivity. Yet, in the mythical conception of time, moments stretch out, allowing for reflection, growth, and a connection to the past and the future,” Eliade suggests in his works on the sacred and the profane.

    The Algorithmic Nature of Clock Time

    Contrastingly, clock time is a linear, structured interpretation based on seconds, minutes, and hours—designed to quantify, schedule, and manage our activities. Our dependence on this algorithmic measure of time has intensified with the advent of technology, weaving intricate patterns of notifications, deadlines, and calendars into our personal and professional worlds.

    As Douglas Rushkoff, a media theorist, points out, “Living according to the clock’s imposed pacing can estrange us from our own bodily rhythms and intuitive understanding of time.” (Douglas Rushkoff, Team Human)

    Choosing to Live Beyond the Algorithm

    Embracing mythical time does not necessitate the total abandonment of modern conveniences, but rather encourages a mindful integration of time’s dual aspects. By cultivating practices that allow us to step outside the algorithm—such as meditation, creative expression, or spending uninterrupted time in nature—we invite a balance that acknowledges both the sacred and the structured.

    Ultimately, living outside the algorithm invites us to harmonize the tangible elements of clock time with the intangible essence of mythical time, empowering us to reconnect with the present moment in a deeper, more meaningful way.

    With this blending, we aim not just to manage our time but to live fully within it, embracing each moment’s potential for connection and significance.

  • Why Reductionism Feels So Cold – The emotional cost of hard science

    Why Reductionism Feels So Cold – The emotional cost of hard science

    In the quest for understanding the universe, reductionism has played a pivotal role. It’s a scientific approach that breaks down complex phenomena into their most basic parts, with the belief that this dissection can help explain the whole. While this method has fueled numerous scientific advancements, there’s an emotional undercurrent that warrants attention. Why does reductionism sometimes feel so cold and impersonal?

    The Essence of Reductionism

    Reductionism has been influential in many scientific discoveries. By analyzing fundamental components, scientists have unraveled mysteries of atoms, cells, and genomes. The method is rooted in the belief that by understanding the parts, we can grasp the whole. Francis Crick, co-discoverer of the structure of DNA, famously stated, “The ultimate aim of the modern movement in biology is in fact to explain all biology in terms of physics and chemistry” [Brainy Quote].

    The Emotional Disconnect

    Despite its successes, reductionism can sometimes strip away the nuances that imbue human experiences with beauty, wonder, and depth. By focusing solely on the parts, reductionism can seem to ignore the emergent properties that arise when those parts interact. This focus might lead to a clinical detachment from the very subjects that the science seeks to explain.

    “The reductionist approach has its successes, but there’s a cost. It tends to look at an organism as a machine, which may miss what it means to be human,” says Michael Gazzaniga, a leading neuroscientist [PBS].

    • Oversimplification: Reducing a phenomenon to simple elements can sometimes result in oversimplification, ignoring the complex interactions that give rise to behaviors and traits.
    • Loss of Holistic Perspective: By focusing on the minutiae, the broader picture may be lost. This can result in scientific conclusions that lack warmth and empathy.

    Striking a Balance

    To mitigate the emotional coldness of reductionism, it’s important to integrate a holistic approach. Systems biology, for instance, emphasizes interactions within biological systems. It suggests a synthesis of reductionist and holistic methods to capture the complexity of life. This integrative approach can provide a fuller, more nuanced understanding of the world, resonating on both cognitive and emotional levels.

    In conclusion, while reductionism is an essential tool in scientific inquiry, weaving in the broader context of the phenomena we study—acknowledging the synergy and the unexpected—can bring a sense of warmth and wonder back to the scientific narrative. As Albert Einstein once noted, “The whole of science is nothing more than a refinement of everyday thinking” [Goodreads]. Thus, recalibrating our approaches could infuse more soul into scientific exploration.

  • The Map Is Not the Territory – Mythic truth versus factual accuracy

    The Map Is Not the Territory – Mythic truth versus factual accuracy

    The Map Is Not the Territory: Mythic Truth versus Factual Accuracy

    The phrase “The map is not the territory” rings true in both the realms of geography and philosophy. Originally coined by philosopher Alfred Korzybski, it suggests that our interpretations of reality, like maps, are merely representations and not the reality itself. This concept beckons us to explore the distinction between mythic truth and factual accuracy in our understanding of the world.

    Understanding Mythic Truth

    Mythic truth refers to the notion that certain stories, symbols, or traditions hold significance beyond their factual content. They resonate on a level that connects individuals to larger cultural or spiritual narratives. As Joseph Campbell, famed mythologist, states, “Myths are public dreams, dreams are private myths.” This suggests that myths provide shared societal dreams, offering insights into fundamental human experiences and desires.

    Consider the story of the Tortoise and the Hare. Factually, we know animals don’t race in this manner, yet the story imparts valuable life lessons about perseverance and humility. This is the power of mythic truth—its ability to convey truths about human behavior and society through storytelling.

    Factual Accuracy: The Need for Precision

    On the other hand, factual accuracy emphasizes precise, verifiable information. In science and history, this attention to detail ensures that theories and narratives are reliable reflections of reality. In an age of information overload, the need to distinguish between fact and fiction becomes imperative for informed decision-making and maintaining trust in various societal institutions.

    “The good thing about science is that it’s true whether or not you believe in it.” – Neil deGrasse Tyson

    Tyson’s words highlight the intrinsic value of verified facts in a scientifically driven world. While factual accuracy provides us with clarity and assurance, it’s also imperative to understand that it isn’t the sole way to perceive truth.

    Balancing Myth and Fact

    The challenge lies in striking a balance between these two domains. While facts help ground us in reality, myths offer us rich, qualitative insights into our existence. In personal development, both should be embraced to lead holistic lives.

    Integrating mythic truth with factual accuracy allows us to appreciate both the poetic and practical aspects of existence. As Korzybski’s phrase reminds us, our modeled interpretations, whether mythic or factual, can never capture the full essence of reality. Instead, recognizing the interplay between these elements can lead to a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the world.

    Ultimately, balancing both perspectives enriches our worldview, positioning us to navigate the complexities of life with both wisdom and knowledge.

  • Science Explains, Myth Orients – A forgotten division of labor

    Science Explains, Myth Orients – A forgotten division of labor

    Throughout history, humanity has sought to understand the world through a dual approach of scientific inquiry and mythological frameworks. While science helps us explain and predict phenomena based on empirical evidence, myth provides orientation and meaning, offering narratives that shape cultural norms and personal identities. Although distinct, these modes of understanding have complemented each other, playing vital roles in the human experience.

    The Rise of Science

    The scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th centuries marked a significant shift in how we comprehend the natural world. Groundbreaking figures such as Galileo Galilei, Sir Isaac Newton, and later, Charles Darwin, laid the foundation for modern science by emphasizing observation, experimentation, and rational inquiry. This era heralded a move towards explanations based on empirical evidence and logical reasoning, as described by renowned cosmologist Neil deGrasse Tyson:

    “The good thing about science is that it’s true whether or not you believe in it.”

    Science’s triumphs, from understanding gravity to decoding the human genome, have dramatically transformed our world. By explaining the laws governing everything from planetary motion to biological processes, science offers a powerful means to navigate and manipulate the physical universe.

    The Role of Myth

    In contrast, myth has traditionally served as the collective imagination, a tool for societies to articulate values, ethics, and identity. Myths are rich with symbolism and moral lessons, providing a framework that transcends mere factual explanation. Joseph Campbell, a prominent scholar of mythology, pointedly noted the enduring power of myth in his work, The Power of Myth:

    “Myths are public dreams, dreams are private myths.”

    Mythical narratives, from the epic tales of Homer to the spiritual texts of various religions, orient individuals and societies by addressing the existential questions of life: Why are we here? What is our purpose? While science deals with the ‘how,’ myth tackles the ‘why,’ nurturing the psychological and emotional landscapes that science alone may not satisfy.

    Complementary Disciplines

    Despite their differences, science and myth have historically complemented each other. Consider the ancient Greeks, who revered the myths of gods and heroes while also giving birth to scientific thought through philosophers like Aristotle. These cultural narratives provided a cohesive worldview in which scientific pursuits were intricately interwoven with mythological understanding.

    In many indigenous cultures, traditional myths articulate deep ecological insights, reflecting systems of knowledge that guide sustainable living practices. As eloquently stated by Wade Davis, an anthropologist and ethno-botanist, in his Ted Talk:

    “A language is not just a body of vocabulary or a set of grammatical rules. Every language is an old-growth forest of the mind, a watershed of thought, an ecosystem of spiritual possibilities.”

    The Modern Rift

    In the modern world, an inadvertent rift has emerged between science and myth, partly due to the elevation of materialism and the emphasis on technological progress. Many view myths as obsolete or mere stories of primitive people trying to make sense of the world without scientific tools.

    This separation often leads to a societal imbalance, with a strict reliance on science risking a neglect of ethical considerations and spiritual well-being. Historian and philosopher Yuval Noah Harari, in his book Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, emphasizes the significance of shared myths in shaping civilizations:

    “You could never convince a monkey to give you a banana by promising him limitless bananas after death in monkey heaven.”

    Such narratives underscore the importance of shared myths in fostering cooperation and cultural cohesion, which purely science-driven perspectives might overlook.

    Reintegrating Science and Myth

    To rectify the current division, a reintegration of scientific and mythological thinking is crucial. The two can exist synergistically, with science offering clarity and possibilities while myth endows these discoveries with meaning and context. As both scientific knowledge expands and global challenges grow, creating new myths that incorporate scientific insights is essential.

    Educational systems can play a central role in cultivating this balance by teaching students to appreciate the strengths and limitations of both science and myth. Encouraging interdisciplinary studies and fostering a critical understanding of various cultural narratives can enhance our ability to address modern ethical dilemmas.

    Conclusion

    In our quest for knowledge and understanding, science and myth represent two indispensable pillars of human thought. Science offers explanations and advancements that change our material world, while myth provides the stories that shape our inner worlds and societal values. By acknowledging and embracing their complementary roles, we can better navigate the complexities of the human condition with wisdom and insight.

    As we move forward in this ever-evolving landscape of discovery, let us be reminded of our ancient division of labor, where how we understand the universe and our place in it is enriched by both science and myth.

  • The Return of the Sacred Narrative – Why myth is resurfacing in a rational age

    The Return of the Sacred Narrative – Why myth is resurfacing in a rational age

    The Return of the Sacred Narrative: Why Myth is Resurfacing in a Rational Age

    In an era dominated by science and reason, one might presume that myths and sacred narratives would find little place. Yet, paradoxically, these age-old stories filled with gods, heroes, and cosmic battles are making a resurgence. But why are these narratives, which have traveled through millennia, finding their way back into contemporary consciousness?

    The Enduring Power of Myth

    The resilience of myth lies in its ability to speak to the human condition. Joseph Campbell, a renowned mythologist, once said, “Myths are public dreams, dreams are private myths.” In myths, we encounter archetypal figures and cosmic dramas that resonate deeply, reflecting our own struggles, desires, and aspirations. They provide a lens through which we can view the complexities and mysteries of life.

    In modern times, we are bombarded with information, much of it technical and logical. However, humans are not purely rational beings. We are also emotional and instinctual. Stories, particularly myths, cater to the part of our psyche that seeks meaning and connections beyond the tangible.

    The Role of Myth in Modern Society

    In today’s society, there is a reinvigorated interest in narratives that offer more than empirical evidence. These stories provide frameworks for understanding human experiences beyond the scopes of logic and science. Here are a few reasons why myths are resurging in today’s rational age:

    • Existential Anxiety: With rapid technological advancement comes existential questions. Stories that address creation, purpose, and the afterlife offer solace amidst uncertainty.
    • Community and Identity: Myths often serve as foundational narratives that shape cultural identity and community. As globalization blurs borders, people turn to myths to understand their place in the world.
    • Ethical and Moral Guidance: Myths often encapsulate moral and ethical lessons, providing a guide to navigating complex social landscapes.
    • Artistic Inspiration: Modern creators draw on ancient myths to craft stories that resonate on both intellectual and emotional levels, from novels and films to art and music.

    Mythology in Popular Culture

    The resurgence of myth is readily apparent in popular culture. Films like “Wonder Woman” and “Thor” tap into ancient narratives of gods and heroes, reimagining them for contemporary audiences. Neil Gaiman’s “American Gods” explores the premise of old gods in a new world, cleverly illustrating the clash between traditional mythologies and modern life.

    “Gaiman uses the legacy of myth to critique modern society…prompting readers to question what we worship, and at what cost.” – NPR

    Similarly, the online gaming world is rife with narratives drawn from mythological systems. Games such as “God of War” delve into Greek mythology, offering immersive experiences where players engage directly with these age-old myths.

    Scientific Mythology: The New Frontier

    Intriguingly, even in the realms of science and technology, mythological narratives find applicability. As Carl Sagan suggested, science itself can be seen as a kind of myth-making. His “Pale Blue Dot” vision is celebrated not only for its scientific insight but also for its poetic, almost mythic, call to cherish our planet.

    Quantum physics and cosmology push the boundaries of the known universe, sparking imagination and inviting parallels with mythological thinking. As these fields explore concepts like multiverses and dark matter, the line between scientific exploration and mythological narrative becomes fascinatingly blurred.

    The Sacred Within the Secular

    Another factor is the resurgence of spirituality in secular guises. The rise of movements such as modern neo-paganism and an increased interest in indigenous spiritual practices reflect a yearning for the sacred amidst a seemingly materialistic world. Many are finding that myth and spirituality offer profound means of connecting with themselves and the universe.

    Consider the popularity of festivals like Burning Man, an event that embodies a kind of myth-making in a community context. People come together to create a temporary mythical utopia, celebrating life through art, music, and storytelling.

    Conclusion: Embracing a Mythic Future

    As we navigate this rational age, it becomes evident that myths have not been replaced by science but have resurfaced in a new form. They beckon us to look beyond the literal and engage with the symbolic. By synthesizing the rational with the mythical, we can cultivate a more holistic understanding of our world.

    As Rollo May, an influential psychologist, beautifully articulated, “Myth is a way of making sense in a senseless world.” Embracing the mythic potential of our age may cultivate richer existential insight and, ultimately, a more meaningful human experience.

  • Technocracy and the Death of Soul – When efficiency replaces wisdom

    Technocracy and the Death of Soul – When efficiency replaces wisdom

    The 21st century has ushered in an era dominated by technological advancements where the term technocracy – a system of governance in which decision-makers are selected based on their expertise in their fields, particularly those linked to technology – is poised to shape societies. However, in this drive toward unparalleled efficiency, a crucial question arises: Are we sacrificing our collective soul in the pursuit of gears and algorithms?

    The Rise of Technocracy

    Traditionally, technocracy emerged out of a necessity for industrial proficiency and systematic accuracy. The philosophy centers around the concept of technical decision-making replacing traditional political mechanisms that could be fraught with bias and inefficiency. According to a piece in The Guardian, “Technocrats believe that science and technology, detached from emotional and cultural considerations, can effectively govern human and natural systems.”

    The Efficiency Conundrum

    While efficiency in governance ensures streamlining of processes and resource optimization, this approach often neglects the human element. Lewis Mumford, a noted historian, and philosopher once remarked,

    “The chief function of the city is to convert power into form, energy into culture, dead matter into the living symbols of art, biological reproduction into social creativity.”

    In a technocratic society, the nuances of such conversion might be lost, and in turn, the essence of culture and creativity diminished.

    Cultural Erosion and Loss of Wisdom

    • Cultural Understanding: The nuanced understanding of human emotions, ethics, and cultural traditions could be overshadowed by cold, data-driven mechanisms. When decisions hinge solely on data, the stories and values behind them risk becoming marginalized.
    • Retention of Wisdom: Wisdom, unlike knowledge, is an evolved attribute cultivated over generations, often through experience, reflection, and moral contemplation. An article from ResearchGate suggests that “while knowledge is essential for technical decision-making, wisdom encompasses ethical and emotional intelligence crucial for harmonious societal development.”
    • Spiritual Disconnection: The mechanization of humanity through technocratic systems may lead to an existential void. Purpose and fulfillment derived from spiritual and personal growth find little space to flourish in purely analytical frameworks.

    The Balance Between Technology and Soul

    What can be done to ensure technology serves humanity without enslaving it? As philosopher Jaron Lanier aptly suggests,

    “We have to be careful because the purpose of technology is not to enslave us to efficiency, but to elevate us to better appreciate our existence.”

    Maintaining this balance starts with recognizing the irreplaceable role of human wisdom and creativity. Incorporating ethical frameworks in technocratic systems can ensure that these mechanisms remain grounded in human values. Implementing broad-based educational programs that stress the importance of critical thinking, empathy, and ethics can foster a generation capable of leading with both intellectual rigor and human compassion.

    Reviving the Human Spirit

    Despite the ominous rise of technocracy, individuals and communities can cultivate resilience through grounded co-existence with technology. Embracing art, philosophy, and cultural rituals in daily life can counterbalance the encroaching dominance of algorithmic governance.

    The human spirit thrives on narrative, the profound stories passed down through generations, often carrying lessons of morality, love, and harmony. Ensuring these stories are retained and valued in society supports a holistic approach to global challenges like climate change, inequity, and health crises. As Harvard Business Review notes, “Stories are more than mere entertainment. They hold the power to heal divisions and reinstate a coherent sense of identity.”

    A Future Vision

    The trajectory humanity will chart depends on our ability to harmonize efficiency with wisdom. By understanding that the soul’s death is not an inevitable consequence of technological progress, we can strive for a lineage where wisdom bestows character to knowledge, and efficiency works alongside empathy.

    The heart of the matter is this: In our ceaseless quest for a more efficient world, let us not sacrifice the wisdom that makes us fundamentally human. Let us embrace a future where technology serves as a vessel for amplified humanity, not its replacement.

  • Myth as Operating System – The symbolic code beneath human cognition

    Myth as Operating System – The symbolic code beneath human cognition

    Myth as Operating System: The Symbolic Code Beneath Human Cognition

    In the realm of human consciousness, myths serve as the unseen processors embedded within our cultural psyche. They function much like an operating system, setting the parameters within which societies understand themselves and their place in the universe. Just as an operating system provides the basic instructions for managing hardware and executing tasks, myths encode the fundamental beliefs and archetypes that shape human cognition and behavior.

    The Nature of Myth

    Joseph Campbell, a renowned mythologist, defined myths as “the secret opening through which the inexhaustible energies of the cosmos pour into human cultural manifestation”. (Source). These narratives are not merely stories of ancient times but are deeply embedded patterns that guide human behavior and understanding. Myths are potent precisely because they resonate with the depths of our psyche, speaking to the universal experiences of being human.

    Myths and Archetypes

    Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung introduced the concept of archetypes, fundamental human motifs that reside within the collective unconscious. He posited that these patterns are found across cultures and eras, suggesting a universal symbolic language. Jung wrote, “Myths are first and foremost psychic phenomena that reveal the nature of the soul”. (Source)

    • The Hero: Seen in figures like Gilgamesh, Hercules, and even modern heroes such as Luke Skywalker, representing the journey of self-discovery and triumph over adversity.
    • The Wise Old Man: A figure of wisdom and guidance, often appearing as Merlin or Gandalf.
    • The Shadow: Representing the dark, unseen aspects of our personality that must be acknowledged and integrated for personal growth.

    Myth’s Role in Cognitive Framework

    Myths influence cognitive frameworks by providing a symbolic language through which humans interpret their experiences. Anthropologist Claude Lévi-Strauss argued that myth is a language, orchestrated by symbols to convey meaning and to navigate the human experience. According to Lévi-Strauss, “the purpose of myth is to provide a logical model capable of overcoming contradictions”. (Source)

    “It would not be true to say that myth serves to explain the world, but rather it is used to overcome certain contradictions that cannot be resolved through ordinary human actions and thought.”

    Operating Systems of the Mind

    In software, an operating system manages resources and provides services to applications that run on a computer. Similarly, in cultures around the world, myths provide the metaphorical framework needed for individuals to process their life experiences. They offer a way to navigate and make sense of existence, as seen in:

    • World Creation Myths: These myths address fundamental questions of origin and existence, offering a schema within which science and faith can coexist.
    • Mythical Morality Tales: Stories like the Pandora’s Box or the tales of the Buddha offer ethical guidelines, presenting a moral landscape that guides personal and collective behavior.
    • End-of-World Narratives: Myths about apocalypses, like Ragnarök or the Christian Apocalypse, prepare societies to face the inevitability of change and transformation.

    Application in Modern Society

    While contemporary society often views myths as quaint or outdated narratives, their impact remains unmistakably potent. Advertisers and filmmakers, knowingly or unknowingly, utilize mythic structures to craft compelling narratives that touch audiences deeply. For instance, the hero’s journey — a classic narrative template — is the backbone of many modern blockbusters. As mythologist Michael Vannoy Adams notes, “Myth is not what happened in the past. Myth is what happens all the time” (Source), suggesting that myth continues its evolutionary role in contemporary culture.

    The Interplay between Myth and Technology

    In our digital age, it is fascinating to explore how technology itself perpetuates new myths. The myth of the computer as an all-knowing oracle has parallels with ancient deities of wisdom. Furthermore, digital narratives echo mythic structures, reflecting our enduring quest for understanding and mastery over the world. The internet, a vast network of knowledge, can be likened to a modern-day Akashic Record—a mythological compendium of infinite wisdom.

    Conclusion

    Myths provide the symbolic maps needed to navigate the complexities of human consciousness and cultural identity. As operating systems of the psyche, they organize our perceptions of reality and imbue life with meaning. Despite advancements in science and technology, myths remain central to our understanding of the world and ourselves, continually evolving and adapting to meet the needs of each new era.

    By recognizing the mythic frameworks that underlie our cognition, we gain insight not only into ancient narratives but also into the codes that continue to shape our lives. As we explore the intersection of myth, cognition, and culture, we become better equipped to understand the past and present fabric of human experience.

  • AI Without Myth – Why artificial intelligence feels hollow

    AI Without Myth – Why artificial intelligence feels hollow

    In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has been hailed as a groundbreaking technological frontier. However, as the hype around AI continues to grow, a counter-narrative is emerging—one that suggests AI, for all its capabilities, feels hollow or devoid of real substance. Why is this sentiment gaining traction, and how might it reflect broader technological and societal dynamics?

    The Hype vs. Reality

    AI is often presented as a magical solution to numerous problems, from improving healthcare to automating mundane tasks. Yet, the effects of AI in reality often fall short of these grand promises. AI’s functional prowess is generally limited to data-driven prediction and pattern recognition, and even the most advanced models, such as GPT-3 or ChatGPT by OpenAI, simulate understanding without actual comprehension.

    • Overpromised Capabilities: The narrative surrounding AI is sometimes oversold. Companies and sensationalist media depictions contribute to a perception that AI can surpass human abilities in areas like creativity and emotional intelligence, which is far from true.
    • Functional Limitations: AI technologies excel in narrow, well-defined tasks but struggle with broader, more abstract forms of reasoning. Current AI lacks true understanding, operating by drawing upon statistical correlations rather than sentient thought.

    AI’s Dependence on Data

    The core of AI functionality lies in data. Algorithms learn from vast datasets, drawing inferences applicable within the confines of their training. However, this data-centric approach introduces several limitations:

    • Data Quality Issues: For AI to provide valuable insights, it requires high-quality, unbiased datasets. Unfortunately, datasets can be incomplete, outdated, or biased, leading to flawed AI outcomes. As highlighted by Dr. Ijeoma E. Eze, “AI systems replicate and, in some cases, enhance the biases present in their training data.”
    • Lack of Original Thought: AI does not generate new ideas. It synthesizes input data, recognizing patterns to mimic human-like outputs. Thus, its engagement with the world remains derivative, lacking the originality that characterizes human intelligence.

    The Illusion of Understanding

    AI’s ability to generate human-like responses provides an illusion of understanding. When an AI responds coherently, it gives the impression of possessing comprehension. Renowned cognitive scientist Herbert A. Simon famously noted, “What computer is to thinking, a subroutine is to consciousness: a program without a self that simulates thought superficially but lacks depth.”

    “AI simulates understanding through complex algorithms but does not possess genuine understanding or consciousness.” – Herbert A. Simon

    This discrepancy between appearance and reality contributes to the perception of AI as hollow. Its outputs can be exceptionally fluent and contextually appropriate, yet lack the experiential sincerity of human cognition.

    The Human Element — Emotion, Morality, and Context

    AI lacks emotional intelligence, a component of thought that is deeply embedded in human interaction. While it can mimic sentiment through analysis and pattern recognition, it remains inherently devoid of emotions.

    • Emotion: Human understanding is enriched by emotional context, empathy, and personal experiences, aspects absent in AI.
    • Morality: Ethical decision-making requires more than cold logic; it demands contextual sensitivity and societal values, debunking the image of AI as an infallible arbiter.

    Many experts echo the sentiment that AI’s limits as an “empathic entity” are particularly striking in fields that require a fine-tuned understanding of human nuances, such as mental health support.

    “Machines can only superficially replicate empathy; real empathy connects fundamentally with the unique human condition.” – Dr. Rosalind Picard, MIT Media Lab

    Skepticism and The Quest for Authentic Intelligence

    As skepticism grows, so does the quest for genuinely intelligent machines. To move beyond surface-level gimmicks, AI needs evolution toward mental faculties closer in spirit to human intelligence. This quest revolves around creating machines capable of:

    • Adaptability: Emulating human-like learning and adaptability, allowing AI to operate beyond rigid programming limitations.
    • General Intelligence: Achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), where AI can perform any intellectual task that a human being can.

    However, achieving such milestones requires tremendous advances in current machine learning practices, ethical guidelines, and a fundamental understanding of consciousness.

    Bridging the Gap

    For AI to transcend its current limitations and shed its “hollow” reputation, it must become more than a tool—it must embody elements of authentic intelligence. Therefore, industries and researchers are urged to:

    • Encourage Interdisciplinary Research: Bridging AI with fields like neuroscience, psychology, and sociology to inform more robust, adaptable AI systems.
    • Invest in Ethical Guidelines: Establishing strong ethical guidelines to ensure that AI growth aligns with humanistic values and minimizes risks.
    • Focus on True Collaboration: Enhancing partnerships between AI and human intelligence, emphasizing systems that augment human capabilities rather than replace them.

    The future of AI holds the promise of innovation, discovery, and immense global impact. However, the path forward must be navigated with care, recognizing that the technology, despite advancements, cannot yet replace or replicate the profound complexities of human intelligence and experience.

  • Before Data, There Was Meaning – What algorithms cannot inherit

    Before Data, There Was Meaning – What algorithms cannot inherit

    From the rise of artificial intelligence to the ubiquitous data-driven narratives that dominate our technological landscape, it often seems that algorithms are the new arbiters of reality. Yet, behind the bloom of data and the sophistication of machine learning models, there lies an essential human dimension that machines still struggle to grasp: meaning. In a world where data tries to dictate meaning, it’s crucial to ask: What can’t algorithms inherit from us?

    The Primacy of Human Context

    Human understanding is deeply rooted in context and experience. While algorithms excel at pattern recognition and prediction based on vast datasets, they often miss the nuances that only context can provide. Philosopher Hubert Dreyfus, in his critique of artificial intelligence, famously argues that human intelligence and skills are fundamentally tied to our embodied experiences and social contexts—a concept he elaborated in Being-in-the-World: A Commentary on Heidegger’s Being and Time, Division I. As Dreyfus puts it, “Only a being with the sort of body and social upbringing we have could have the kinds of expertise we have.” [Source]

    The Complexity of Language

    Natural language processing applications have made impressive advances, yet the task of deriving meaning from language remains inherently complex. Language is not just a string of words or sentences but a rich tapestry woven with culture, intention, and emotion. Linguist Noam Chomsky highlighted the challenges of computational understanding in his numerous works, emphasizing the intricacies of syntax and semantics that go beyond algorithmic computation. Chomsky once noted, “The infinite use of finite means—language remains a defining species characteristic.” [Source]

    Understanding Subtlety and Emotion

    Emotions are a profound aspect of human life that shape our interpretations and decisions. While sentiment analysis and affective computing are emerging fields aiming to bridge this gap, they often fail to capture the subtleties of human emotions. As Rosalind Picard, a pioneer in affective computing, states, “It’s not that computers are emotional; it’s that they can help people be emotionally insightful.” [Source]

    The Ethical Dimensions

    Algorithms, by their nature, lack ethical reasoning. They follow instructions, learn from data, and predict outcomes, but do not possess a moral compass. This limitation is particularly apparent in complex ethical scenarios where human values play critical roles. As the field of AI ethics explores these limitations, a popular stance holds that ethical reasoning involves “imagination and seeing all sides,” which are outside current machine capabilities. [Source]

    “While machines can simulate human behavior, they cannot replace human judgment, which is often guided by wisdom, empathy, and insight,” remarks ethicist Shannon Vallor. [Source]

    The Role of Creativity

    Creativity stands as one of the ultimate tests of any claim about machine intelligence. While algorithms can produce art, music, and even poetry, they do so by recombining existing data based on set parameters. True creativity, as seen in human works, often involves breaking boundaries, defying logic, and crossing conventional expectations in a way that machines can only mimic, not originate.

    MIT’s renowned professor, Marvin Minsky, illustrated this in his exploration of AI, stating, “You can’t learn to be creative just by recording data—it requires breaking the mold.” [Source]

    Concluding Thoughts

    As we drive forward in this digital age, it’s important to remember that while data can inform insights and algorithms can enhance efficiencies, the authentic leap from data to meaning, from calculation to comprehension, is a distinctly human trait. As we embrace technology’s potential, nurturing the irreplaceable aspects of human intelligence—our context, emotions, ethics, and creativity—is not just beneficial, but essential.

    In doing so, we can ensure that as we rely on the growing tide of algorithms, we do not lose sight of the deeply human elements that imbue our data with true meaning.