The Power of Myth [WAS: Africa {WAS: 10 trillion...} ]

OK, here we go with another post. I changed the subject line, as this
isn't about population in Africa (or anywhere else) anymore.

--- In spacesettlers, "Omar E. Vega" wrote:

>> But nobody buys that anymore. Because science is self-correcting,
>> while myth is not. Thus biological evolution can accomodate the
>> discovery of DNA, while creationism cannot.

> Well, to be a creationist these days people have to be really
> ignorant. Catholics, for instance, are not creationists but follow
> Pierre Theilhard de Cardin, so myths also evolve. Otherwise
> religions would not remain alive for too long.

> If the only mission of myths were to anticipate science then their
> importance would be very minor. Myths are symbols; psicological
> tools, healing tools, not just user manuals. No. Myths goes beyond
> that. Myths are models of the world that explain the "why" and not
> only the "how".

I still think we might be talking about two different things when we
say "myth."

> There are many things in life that are not rational and not
> provable. Truths that are not scientific by ANY means.
> For example, the ethics and morals of society. Rules like:
>
> Not to kill, not to rob, love your country, respect women, etc.

All good and fine things. Why they need myth (at least as I
understand the word) is beyond me.

> Are all rooted in social CONVENTIONS and explained by myths. If you
> believe in democracy, justice, law and any other of other abstract
> terms you are believing in a myth (Not that they are false but can't
> be proved by science; you have to accept them like they are)

There are rational reasons for democracy, justice, law and many of
these other things. A God or Force or whatever is not necessary.

> Brain has two sides. "The creator" (so to speak) invented them
> because we need both of them. For example in psicology. As an
> example, learn to read Tarot. You will be surprised how easy is to
> read the minds of ladies, which has "practical" advantages. No myth

Or palmistry. But that is trickery (as is Tarot). I might get more
p***y if I were a trickster, but I'd have to live with myself.

> (is not necessary you believe Tarot is truth, but just to know how
> to read it :))

Maybe we should take this off list, unless we can put it back in space.