Age Quote by Michael Shermer
“Myths, whether in written or visual form, serve a vital role of asking unanswerable questions and providing unquestionable answers. Most of us, most of the time, have a low tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty. We want to reduce the cognitive dissonance of not knowing by filling the gaps with answers. Traditionally, religious myths have served that role, but today — the age of science — science fiction is our mythology.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Why People Believe in God, Michael Shermer, 2010
Myths help us cope with uncertainty by framing unanswerable questions and offering definitive answers, especially in modern sci‑fi culture.
In simple terms: Myths give certainty in uncertainty.
Key Takeaway
Embrace ambiguity, seek evidence.
Themes
uncertainty
myths
science fiction
psychology
Mood
curious
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- creative writing
- media analysis
- education
- public discourse
Key Concepts
cognitive dissonance
meaning making
cultural narratives
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you handle uncertainty without myth?
- What role should science fiction play in shaping values?
A Different Perspective
Myths can oversimplify complex issues, leading to dogma.
![“You'll be pleased to hear, Christopher, that I am no longer a Muslim liberal but an atheist […] I find that it obviates the necessity for any cognitive dissonance.” quote by Ayaan Hirsi Ali](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/509/ayaan-hirsi-ali-2858_atheism_you-ll-be-pleased-to-hear-christopher-th_858008.jpg)
