Why have people from different cultures and eras formulated myths and stories with similar structures? What does this similarity tell us about the mind, morality, and structure of the world itself? From the author of 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos comes a provocative hypothesis that explores the connection between what modern neuropsychology tells us about the brain and what rituals, myths, and religious stories have long narrated. A cutting-edge work that brings together neuropsychology, cognitive science, and Freudian and Jungian approaches to mythology and narrative, Maps of Meaning presents a rich theory that makes the wisdom and meaning of myth accessible to the critical modern mind.
Product details
- Publisher : Routledge
- Publication date : January 1, 1999
- Edition : First Edition
- Language : English
- Print length : 564 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0367463156
- ISBN-13 : 978-0367463151
- Item Weight : 1.65 pounds
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Dimensions : 9.06 x 6.69 x 1.22 inches
FAQ:
1. What is this book about in simple terms?
This book explores why myths, religious stories, and symbols appear similar across cultures and what they reveal about the human mind, morality, and how people make meaning in the world.
2. Who should read this book?
It’s best suited for readers interested in psychology, philosophy, mythology, religion, cognitive science, and cultural studies, as well as fans of Jordan Peterson’s work.
3. Is this book related to 12 Rules for Life?
Yes. Maps of Meaning lays the theoretical foundation for many of the ideas later presented in 12 Rules for Life, but it is more academic and in-depth.
4. Is this an easy or difficult read?
This book is challenging and dense. It is written in an academic style and is best for readers who enjoy deep theoretical discussions rather than light reading.
5. What disciplines does the book draw from?
The book integrates neuropsychology, cognitive science, mythology, religion, Freudian and Jungian psychology, and narrative theory.
6. Does the book discuss religion in a scientific or philosophical way?
Yes. Rather than promoting a specific belief system, it analyzes religious stories as psychological and cultural frameworks that guide behavior and moral understanding.
7. Is this book suitable for beginners in psychology or philosophy?
Beginners can read it, but it helps to have some background or strong interest in psychology, mythology, or philosophy to fully appreciate the content.
8. Does this edition include updated content?
This is the original First Edition. While not recently updated, it remains a foundational and widely cited work in psychology and cultural theory.
9. What makes this book unique compared to other psychology books?
Its uniqueness lies in how it connects ancient myths and rituals with modern brain science, offering a unified theory of meaning and moral behavior.
10. Is this book more theoretical or practical?
It is highly theoretical, focusing on deep analysis rather than practical self-help advice, making it ideal for thoughtful, analytical readers.
