Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Mythology and Ideology

Mythology and Ideology are similar but separate entities.  To create simple definitions of each, a Myth is a story that provides an explanation whereas an Ideology is a way in which we live.

Both Myths and Ideologies have a strong influence over our lives.  They control the way we think, react and socialize without us even realizing it.  The clearest example that I can provide for each would be the Christian Ideology and the mythological stories within the Bible.

In the Bible, many stories are told (particularly in the Old Testament) that help to explain the world as it came to be.  These myths are how we explain phenomena in our every day lives (i.e. creation).  Other stories (such as the ones from the New Testament) help to provide a clearer definition of the Christian Ideology and faith.

These are stories about Jesus Christ, his doings and his teachings.  The lessons taught here are what Christians carry with them in every day life to guide their choices.  Everything from what to eat, to how to treat others stems from the ideology provided within the Bible.

The myths and ideologies that we are raised on create significant impacts on our everyday lives.  This ties into semiotics as well, altering out perception.  With Christian values at your side, signified and signifiers may appear and be interpreted differently for a person. A cross isn’t much more than just a cross until you’re a Christian bible reader. (Or even someone who has read or learned from the bible)

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