Ep. 291: Cassirer and Langer on Myth and Ritual (Part One)

<p>On Ernst Cassirer's <em>An Essay on Man</em> (1944), ch. 6-7, and Susanne Langer's <em>Philosophy in a New Key</em> (1942), ch. 6-7. Why do people produce ritual, mythology, and religion? According to our authors, these are spontaneous, symbolic modes of self-expression. They're not opposed to rational, scientific thought, but are necessary preconditions for it.</p> <p>Part two of this episode is only going to be available to you if you sign up at <a href="https://partiallyexaminedlife.com/support">partiallyexaminedlife.com/support</a> or via <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/the-partially-examined-life/id318345767">Apple Podcasts</a>.</p> <p>Sponsors: <em>Get one month's access to a huge library of guided meditations at <a href="https://headspace.com/PEL">Headspace.com/PEL</a>.</em> <em>Get 10% off a month of therapy at <a href="https://betterhelp.com/partially">BetterHelp.com/partially</a>.</em> <em>Learn about St. John's College at <a href="https://sjc.edu/pel">sjc.edu/pel</a>.</em></p>