What Are America's Myths?

Our topic for December was "What are America's myths?" - suggested by George Garrett. Thanks George. Thanks also to Ken Thompson for doing his usual fine job as moderator and thanks to Derek Breen, proprietor of Mod, for hosting our gathering at "The Loft at Mod".

Also present were Carole Abel, Daria Brezinski, John Tytus, Billie Lagerwerff, Felix Bizaoui, Jason Varsoke, and Lisa Alvarez.

We touched on many themes including, What are myths? Are myths, by definition, false or true? How so? What myths are unique to American culture? Where do myths come from? How do they change? Who are the story-tellers of today? What do our myths tell us about who we are? and many more.

Other topics that were suggested, but not selected for this time, were:

1. The nature of language and the meaning of words as used, abused, and manipulated by politicians, interest groups, advertising, and other institutions of power.

2. The role of computer technology in connecting and/or aleinating individuals from each other and "the real world".

3. The meaning of culture in the age of technology.

4. The power/role of corporations in international events.

Thanks to those who suggested these topics. They are all fair game for future discussions.

The next Socrates at Mod is scheduled for January 17 (third Wednesday of the month). See you there.