Description
Book SynopsisMyths are commonly associated with illusions or with deceptive, dangerous discourse, and are often perceived as largely the domain of premodern societies. But even in our post-industrial, technologically driven world, myths Western or Eastern, ancient or modern, religious or scientific are in fact powerful, pervasive forces.
In Social Myths and Collective Imaginaries, Gérard Bouchard conceptualizes myths as vessels of sacred values that transcend the division between primitive and modern. Myths represent key elements of collective imaginaries, past and present. In all societies there are values and beliefs that hold sway over most of the population. Whether they come from religion, political institutions, or other sources, they enjoy exalted status and go largely unchallenged. These myths have the power to bring societies together as well as pull them apart. Yet the study of myth has been largely neglected by sociologists and other social scientists. Bouchard naviga
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"…Social Myths is an intriguing and potentially valuable analysis of cultural development." -- Scott Duchesne * Canadian Literature 236 2018 *
"By the early 1990s, Gérard Bouchard had become one of the few prolific authors who always deserved close reading. The wonderful translation of his latest book will further increase his reputation for rigorous thinking, wide-ranging reading, and engaging writing." -- Chad Gaffield, University of Ottawa * The Canadian Historical Review, vol 99 4, December 2018 *
Table of Contents
Introduction Chapter 1 - Myths and Collective Imaginaries Chapter 2 - What is a social myth? Chapter 3 - The Mythification Process Chapter 4 - The Conditions for the Effectiveness of Myth Chapter 5 - Social Myths: A Pyramidal Structure General Conclusion Bibliography Notes
