Book Review: The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell

At one of the most conservative universities on the planet, Brigham Young University, I was first introduced to Joseph Campbell through a wonderful (and in hindsight, courageous) pair of Honors History instructors that elected to teach history of the world through the cultures and myths of their traditions. It was by far the best class I took while there. I just completed another read of this work and, although the structure is conversational and disjointed in places, was reminded how dramatically Joseph Campbell’s work saved my life and faith from my own mind’s attacks of reason and irrational rationalism. No, I do not accept everything taught by my chosen faith, just as I find aspects of science and other traditions equally difficult to accept. Campbell’s research shows how deeply important to our own mind, heart, and world these deep seated traditions are, and what just might be wrong with dogma and societal interpretations of once pure ideas adapted for less than altruistic intentions. Understanding Campbell allows me to quietly synthesize the best of my core tradition with inherent truths of others as well as fully embracing science and empiricism. Looking at all belief systems both as possibly literal and always possibly metaphorical opens up child-hood teachings with new insight and potential. I find I am a child of God, a child of Mother Nature, and as such carry the stuff of both in me. Read this and believe, no matter your path, not just for yourself, but all those in need of compassion around you.