HS302: Approaches to World History

Arnav Singh

21IAMP03

IMA Economics

Religion: The Power of Shared Myths

"Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" offers profound insights into the role of
religion as a unifying force among Homo sapiens. Harari contends that our species'
unique ability to create and believe in shared myths has been instrumental in forming
religions and large-scale cooperation. He writes, "Homo sapiens is the only species
that can believe in things that exist purely in its imagination, such as gods, states,
money, and human rights."

Harari further explores how these imagined orders have laid the foundation for human
societies. Religion, in particular, has played a pivotal role in fostering cooperation,
trust, and a sense of belonging among individuals who subscribe to a standard belief
system. Throughout history, it has provided moral frameworks, guiding principles, and
a sense of purpose. However, "Sapiens" also presents religion's darker aspects,
highlighting religious conflict, intolerance, and persecution. Harari discusses how
differing religious beliefs have led to wars and discrimination against those who do
not adhere to the dominant faith.

By critically examining the role of religion through the lens of "Sapiens," we gain a
deeper understanding of how shared myths have shaped our societies and influenced
our interactions. It prompts us to reflect on the ethical dimensions of religious beliefs
and their impact on individuals and communities.

Relationships: The Flexibility of Human Bonds

In "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind," Yuval Noah Harari delves into the
intricate web of human relationships, emphasising the remarkable flexibility of these
bonds. Harari asserts that Homo sapiens can forge connections beyond immediate
kinship, establishing global trust and cooperation with strangers. He writes, "Sapiens
can cooperate in large numbers effectively by believing in common myths."

It goes on to explore the multifaceted nature of human relationships. Harari highlights

the positive aspects of cooperation and trust, which have been vital to the species'
success. However, he does not shy away from the darker aspects, discussing
exploitation, inequality, and hierarchies throughout history. By examining these
complexities, "Sapiens" encourages readers to assess the ethical dimensions of their
relationships critically and consider the broader implications of human interactions.

Sapiens challenges conventional societal perspectives by revealing how it is

constructed upon shared fiction and collective imagination. He contends, "We can
cooperate in extremely flexible ways with countless strangers because we believe in
things like nations, money, and human rights." While abstract and not grounded in
objective reality, these imagined constructs hold immense sway over our lives and
interactions.

The Lost World under Harari’s Lens

"The Lost World" revolves around the idea of scientific exploration. Professor George
Edward Challenger, a prominent character in the novel, personifies scientific curiosity
and dedication. Challenger is convinced that primitive beings inhabit a hidden planet
on the plateau. This opinion is based on his scientific conviction, as he declares, "I
have brought on myself a punishment and a danger that I cannot name." But I'm
willing to make apologies." These statements represent his steadfast devotion to the
quest for knowledge, even at tremendous personal danger.

Throughout the story, the characters use scientific procedures and instruments to
chronicle their discoveries. They methodically record the anatomy, behaviour, and
habits of the dinosaurs they see, emphasising the expedition's scientific rigour. Their
observations are vividly described, emphasising their systematic approach to their
investigation. A further driving factor in the narrative is Challenger's desire to provide
the scientific community, which is often sceptical, with tangible evidence. He is
adamant about proving his views with empirical data, emphasising the significance of
scientific validation and the never-ending pursuit of knowledge.

During the interwar period, Lost World was written against the backdrop of scientific
positivism. The belief that research may benefit mankind, as a consequence, has
gained more support from both scientific and non-scientific creeds. Because of the
economic abundance that humanity experienced, particularly in the First World
nations, many science fiction films and books were created during this period. This
hope, however, was quickly dashed by the First World War.

The novel's characters are motivated to explore the unknown, even in the face of
massive peril, by their curiosity. It may reflect on the fundamental human need to seek
new experiences and information and the potential consequences of unchecked
ambition. The novel's characters struggle with the fear of the unfamiliar and
potentially dangerous encounters with primordial animals. This theme highlights how
humans react to the unknown and how fear may hinder and encourage exploration.
Professor Challenger's persistent trust in his theories and drive to prove them to a
sceptical scientific community illustrate the human ego and the want for
acknowledgement. The role of the ego in scientific endeavours as well as the goal of
celebrity or affirmation.

The idea of "The Lost World" as a land of fantasy and myth highlights the power of
human imagination. Readers may consider how imagination impacts our view of
reality and how shared myths determine our beliefs and actions. The explorers in the
story face ethical issues, including the influence of their presence on the plateau's
ecosystem and indigenous inhabitants. Readers may consider the moral implications
of exploration and the responsibilities that it entails. The protagonists must adjust fast
to survive in the harsh and unpredictable environment of the plateau. This theme
raises concerns about human adaptability and how people respond to unexpected and
overwhelming circumstances.

While on the plateau, the protagonists in the novel experience isolation from the
outside world. Readers may consider the psychological repercussions of isolation, the
value of social ties, and the human desire for community. Despite their scientific
understanding, the protagonists frequently need clarification on the plateau's secrets.
This theme challenges readers to ponder the boundaries of human comprehension and
the vastness of uncharted natural world areas. "The Lost World" depicts the scientific
community's struggle between scientific inquiry and scepticism—the role in
advancing knowledge and the difficulties experienced by pioneering scientists.

Concluding Remarks

But what matters? We are one of the millions of organisms that live on our small
planet in the cosmos known as Earth. Where are we going with all of this scientific
knowledge and invention? Is science capable of answering questions that would
otherwise be answered by Myths such as religion and ideology? Marxists live their
lives to bring about a more egalitarian society. Hindus live by Karma and Dharma
with the hope that one day, after millions of incarnations, they will achieve salvation.
Christians and Muslims live to do good in Heaven once they die. Why will the
scientific world's inhabitants live? Does science give them a reason to live?

Myth Making- Lost World Purview

In fiction, "The Lost World" takes us on a captivating journey to a remote plateau in

the Amazon rainforest. The driving force behind this expedition is the myth—a belief
that many would consider an unbelievable story—of a hidden world teeming with
prehistoric creatures. Professor George Edward Challenger's unwavering conviction in
this myth sets the narrative in motion. This myth serves as a powerful symbol of
human imagination and belief. It prompts us to ponder the question: What compels
humans to explore the unknown, embark on dangerous adventures, and seek to
validate myths, even in the face of scepticism?

"The Lost World" reminds us that myths can catalyse human actions. They have the
potential to spark scientific curiosity, fuel adventurous quests, and drive exploration.
The novel underscores the profound impact that myths, whether grounded in fact or
fiction, can have on shaping human behaviour and driving us to explore the uncharted
territories of our world.

Sapien’s Purview

In the realm of non-fiction, "Sapiens" by Yuval Noah Harari explores the unique
ability of Homo sapiens to create and believe in shared myths. These myths, which
can take various forms, including religions, ideologies, and cultural narratives, serve
as the glue that binds societies together. Harari argues that many of these myths are
not rooted in objective reality but are social constructs. He discusses how myths like
religion and the concept of nation-states have been instrumental in fostering
cooperation among large groups of strangers. "Sapiens" encourages us to recognise
the role of myth-making in shaping human history and organising societies.

This perspective prompts us to reflect on the power of the stories we tell ourselves and
the myths we create to make sense of the world. "Sapiens" challenges us to critically
examine the myths that influence contemporary society and consider their
implications.