Belief Quote by Joseph Campbell
“The psychological dangers through which earlier generations were guided by the symbols and spiritual exercises of their mythological and religious inheritance, we today (in so far as we are unbelievers, or, if believers, in so far as our inherited beliefs fail to represent the real problems of contemporary life) must face alone, or, at best with only tentative, impromptu, and not often very effective guidance. This is our problem as modern, "enlightened" individuals, for whom all gods and devils have been rationalized out of existence.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Hero with a Thousand Faces, 1949
Modern individuals lack clear guidance from ancient myths, facing existential challenges alone.
In simple terms: Old myths no longer guide us clearly.
Key Takeaway
Seek new frameworks for meaning.
Themes
myth
existence
modernity
Mood
contemplative
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- cultural analysis
- philosophical inquiry
Key Concepts
spiritual void
individualism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can ancient narratives inform modern life?
- What new symbols can we create?
A Different Perspective
May ignore value of traditional wisdom.
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