Wednesday, 6 January 2010

Did the invention of alphabetic literacy worsen the position of women?

Click here for other formats

The Alphabet Versus the Goddess

The Conflict Between Word and Image
Leonard Shlain - Author
$18.00
add to cart view cart
Book: Paperback | 5.59 x 8.42in | 496 pages | ISBN 9780140196016 | 01 Sep 1999 | Penguin | 18 - AND UP
The Alphabet Versus the Goddess
"); } // -->
This groundbreaking book proposes that the rise of alphabetic literacy reconfigured the human brain and brought about profound changes in history, religion, and gender relations. Making remarkable connections across brain function, myth, and anthropology, Dr. Shlain shows why pre-literate cultures were principally informed by holistic, right-brain modes that venerated the Goddess, images, and feminine values. Writing drove cultures toward linear left-brain thinking and this shift upset the balance between men and women, initiating the decline of the feminine and ushering in patriarchal rule. Examining the cultures of the Israelites, Greeks, Christians, and Muslims, Shlain reinterprets ancient myths and parables in light of his theory. Provocative and inspiring, this book is a paradigm-shattering work that will transform your view of history and the mind.

Or was it the feminine, holistic, right-brain in men that suffered - with the consequent worsening of the position of women?

Posted via web from sunwalking's posterous

No comments: