Note from the Subconscious Mind
In a previous column titled "Left and Right as Cosmological Systems," the author delved into the premise that left symbolizes evil and right symbolizes good. However, this perspective is being challenged, as a more nuanced understanding of symbolism emerges, particularly in the work of Joseph Campbell.
Joseph Campbell, an expert on symbols and myths, discusses two kinds of mythology: right-hand and left-hand. In his interpretation of mythology, left and right symbolize different aspects of order and chaos, the unconscious and conscious realms, or alternative forces in the human psyche and society. This symbolism also connects to political order, as myths often reflect social structures and the tension between opposing forces within a culture.
Campbell treats mythology as revealing transcendent realities and metaphysical truths underlying human existence, often presenting symbolic opposites that function in the psyche and society[1]. The hero's journey, a core concept in Campbell’s work, symbolically moves between realms (often represented as opposing states or sides) to reconcile or transform dualities at both personal and societal levels[3].
These symbolic oppositions can be extended to ideas of political order, where "left" and "right" might represent conflict and integration within social structures. For instance, a person can choose the way of the village (the right) and conform to its moral norms, or they can set aside respectability and live dangerously on the left[4].
However, it's important to note that Campbell himself focused more on universal psychological and spiritual narratives than explicit political symbolism. Other scholars, however, highlight that myth and symbolic narratives embody and transition social and political orders, as myths serve as rituals teaching people to navigate societal conditions and challenges[2].
The symbolic left-right dichotomy can thus be understood as a metaphor for conflicting social forces or paths in political life, where myths legitimize the sovereign's role in mediating or overcoming discord to restore balance, order, or a new societal vision[4].
In the author's dreams, the left hand has been a recurring symbol, representing a good thing. Yet, a new global myth is being promoted, which is against the village. This new myth is self-negating, and it's crucial to note that the left is not associated with replacing our village mythos with a globalist mythos. Instead, it could symbolize the need for transformation and integration of conflicting forces within our societal structures.
Recommended reading for next week is Eric Voegelin's "New Science of Politics." As we delve deeper into understanding the symbolism of left and right in political contexts, it's essential to approach these concepts with an open mind and a willingness to question and explore the rich tapestry of myths and symbols that shape our understanding of the world.
[1] Campbell, J. (1949). The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Princeton University Press. [2] Turner, V. W. (1967). The Forest of Symbols: Aspects of Ndembu Ritual. Cornell University Press. [3] Campbell, J. (1988). The Power of Myth. Doubleday. [4] Campbell, J. (1991). Myths to Live By. HarperOne.
- Joseph Campbell's work on symbols and myths, particularly the hero's journey, offers a nuanced understanding of left and right as symbolic opposites, representing conflicting forces within the psyche and society, extending to political order where they may symbolize integration and conflict within social structures.
- It's essential to acknowledge that while Campbell focused on universal psychological and spiritual narratives, other scholars argue that myths and symbolic narratives embody and transition social and political orders, shaping societal perspectives on political life.
- In the context of health-and-wellness and mental health, understanding the symbolic left-right dichotomy can be useful in addressing challenging societal issues, as it provides a metaphor for the need for transformation and integration of conflicting forces within our societal structures, promoting general-news discussions around social change and societal balance.
