Myth and Ideology

The posthumously published work by Lawrence Krader surveys the study of myths from ancient times to the twentieth century, discussing evolutionist, structuralist, hermeneutic, and linguistic approaches. It covers the treatment of myth from the inside and the perspective of outsiders, rejects some assumptions, and includes a discussion of myth in science and mathematics. It also considers the relationship between myth and ideology in the twentieth century in relation to politics and power.

Format: Hardback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2021
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing Inc

This extensive posthumously published work by Lawrence Krader explores the study of myths across various ancient cultures, biblical traditions, indigenous peoples of the Americas and Australia, and Northeastern and Central Asia. It also delves into the approaches to myth study in Europe during the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Enlightenment, as well as the Romantic movement in the late eighteenth and early to mid-nineteenth century. The book encompasses two main perspectives: one that examines the treatment of myth from the insiders' experience, those who are deeply committed to the myth, and another that takes into account the viewpoints of ethnologists, philosophers, and other scholars of myth who are considered outsiders.

Krader critically examines the assumptions and methods employed in the past to study myths and selectively incorporates and expands upon those that align with his overarching theory of myth. The book discusses the role of myth in science and infinitesimal mathematics, and also explores the relationship between myth and ideology in the twentieth century, particularly in relation to politics and power. It further incorporates and broadens Krader's theory of nature, which he developed in his magnum opus, Noetics: The Science of Thinking and Knowing.

This comprehensive work provides a rich and multifaceted exploration of the study of myths, shedding light on their historical, cultural, and philosophical significance. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering a comprehensive and insightful perspective on the enduring power of myth in human society.

Weight: 652g
Dimension: 225 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781433172069
Edition number: New ed