The Alphabet Versus the Goddess Audiobook By Leonard Shlain cover art

The Alphabet Versus the Goddess

The Conflict Between Word and Image

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Who changed the sex of God?

This groundbreaking book proposes that the rise of alphabetic literacy reconfigured the human brain and brought about profound changes in history, religion, and gender relations. Making remarkable connections across brain function, myth, and anthropology, Dr. Shlain shows why pre-literate cultures were principally informed by holistic, right-brain modes that venerated the Goddess, images, and feminine values.

Writing drove cultures toward linear left-brain thinking and this shift upset the balance between men and women, initiating the decline of the feminine and ushering in patriarchal rule. Examining the cultures of the Israelites, Greeks, Christians, and Muslims, Shlain reinterprets ancient myths and parables in light of his theory. Provocative and inspiring, this book is a paradigm-shattering work that will transform your view of history and the mind.

©1998 Leonard Shlain (P)2017 Tantor Ancient History Gender Studies Human Brain Social Sciences World Anthropology Thought-Provoking Civilization Mythology Words, Language & Grammar Middle Ages Inspiring Middle East
Incredible Insights • Well-researched Content • Tolerable Narration • Mind-opening Information • Compelling Arguments

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Dense, well-researched, verbose, and life-changing. I felt anger and grief while reading this.

Should be required reading

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Possibly the most interesting non fiction book I've ever read! Buying copies to give out.

Fascinating

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If only more people would listen :|
What a brilliant man.
And no more cursive. What’s next :(

Fantastic

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Amazing book great amount of study into the history of the world ....gives amazing detail

Great Reads

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Do you have an estimated time of arrival at the truth? From the beginning female deities were worshipped. This tome describes what happened to them—and what happened to us.

Excellent! Well organized. Only a man who cares about women and women’s history could write such a work. Thanks Dr. Schlain

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