Maps of Meaning

Question 1

Why are the two elements that construct the world?

What are the frameworks we use for describing each?

Answer 1

1. A forum for action, described using the techniques of narrative (myth, literature, and drama). The world of value.
2. A place of things, described using the formal methods of science. The objective world.

Question 2

What are the three constituent elements of the world as a forum for action?

Answer 2

1. Unexplored territory; Mother Nature
2. Explored territory, the Great Father - culture, cumulative ancestral wisdom
3. The process that mediates between unexplored and explored territory: the Divine Son

Question 3

How are individuals protected from unprotected exposure to unexplored territory / fear?

Answer 3

Ritual imitation of the Great Father: group identity, which restricts the meaning of things & enables social interaction.

Question 4

To what is rejection of the unknown tantamount?

Answer 4

“Identification with the devil”; the mythological counterpart and eternal adversary of the hero.

Question 5

Where does personal interest / subjective meaning reveal itself?

Answer 5

At the juncture of explored and unexplored territory.

Question 6

What is loyalty to personal interest equivalent to?

Answer 6

Identification with the archetypal hero: the “savior” who upholds the “Word” in the face of death, despite group pressure to conform.

Question 7

What instinctive response do humans have to novelty (or anomaly)?

Answer 7

1. Emotions of
   a. Fear (first )
   b. Curiosity
2. Stopping activity
3. Active exploration

This is how we learn appropriate behavior