The alphabet versus the goddess: the conflict between word and image

Abstract

Could invention of writing, and then alphabet, have been largely responsible for a decisive shift towards patriarchy and misogyny? in this book, author draws on brain anatomy and anthropology, religion and history, to develop his challenging thesis. Literacy, he argues, encourages masculine linear, reductionist and abstract modes of thought which tend to degrade women. (The witch-hunts of Renaissance coincided with rapid expansion of printing). Yet last century has been rise of visual communications media such as photography, film, television and Internet. Regardless of their content, such innovations are reconfiguring our brains and producing a climate far more amenable to feminine values. it is only by acknowledging downside of literacy that we can incorporate its benefits into a culture rooted in the right-hemispheric values of tolerance, caring and respect for nature.

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