American Mythology

How did democracy, born in the Aegean, end up on the shores of America? It was an epic journey, with many casualties. Democracy in ancient civilizations may surprise us. We may not recognize it. And it may teach us less about how democracy thrives, and more about how it collapses.

Celebrating American Mythology's 6-month milestone with a thank you to all the listeners, plus three short updates about the show.

The Americans of our past exhibited a strict discipline to their labors that resonates in our history. But could such an unrelenting work ethic explain shifts in cultural norms and impede our ability to solve problems tied to labor, like poverty?

Our ancestors sought out ancient oracles to provide insight on their fortunes and fates. America has found its own oracle in a market to which we've tied our hopes and dreams, but not without the risk of ruin.

America has faced many enemies in our past, and they often reveal more about us than they do about themselves. Does America need an enemy to accomplish great things, or can it rally around positive outcomes by overcoming the influence of fear?

Underneath the mythology and embellishment of George Washington is an audacious leader of valor and wisdom. He embodies our need to glorify and memorialize heroes. In the face of another Presidential election, what can we learn from the legacy of Washington in selecting our next leader?

Within the history of every country and culture are legends, heroes, and deities. In America, the highest honor goes to a man known affectionately as the Father of America, whose legend is larger than life. At what point did the man end and the myth begin? (Part 1 of 2)

The American flag is a symbol of our freedom, independence, and union that has changed history. But do we live up to the values it represents, and is it so sacred that we’re willing to deny the rights of others in order to preserve it?

Is America so enchanted by democracy that the veil of it is enough to elect a President? This episode explores the origins of the presidential primary system and its representativeness today.

We all know and seek the American Dream. It is at the core of our mythology and national ethos. But it has changed drastically over time. Does the dream still exist? And what is the role of government in setting conditions for the dream to thrive?

There is a mythology at the core of American identity, ideology, and history. It can interfere with our ability to achieve good self-government, or it can inspire real solutions. The choice is yours.