Books & Research

The Dharma Conundrum: Delineating the Origins of Moral Ambiguity (2020)

The book explores the complex concept of "Dharma" and discusses how people face tough decisions in life when their duties, values, and beliefs clash with each other. It uses stories from ancient Indian texts like the Mahabharata to show how different characters struggled with their dharma and made difficult choices. Read More

The Antigod Paradox (2023)

Drawing on the Epicurean Paradox, the book examines the contradictions inherent in the idea of an all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good God in the face of suffering and evil in the world. Read More

Ongoing Research on Utilizing "Mythological Realism" in Educational and Therapeutic Settings

Myths are like guides for tough times. They can cheer us on when we're going through really hard stuff. I've noticed this in my own life too. It's helpful to look at these old stories for a bit of hope. After all, those legendary heroes did manage to get through their huge challenges. The combination of mythology and realism can inspire, challenge, and heal, providing a means of understanding the world and our place in it. I am actively experimenting with integrating mythological realism into both educational settings and therapeutic practices.
A bunch of curious minds soaking up knowledge in the outdoors!
It was all about blending Essential Life Skills with Mythological Tales.

Education: Integrating mythological realism into educational settings can enhance learning by bridging cultural narratives with contemporary values. By utilizing mythological realism, educators can create a dynamic learning environment that resonates with students and prepares them for complex real-world challenges.

Integrating Mythological Realism in Education

Approach: Critical Thinking, Interpretation, & Creativity

Mythological Realism encourages students to analyze and interpret narratives that blur the lines between reality and fantasy. This analytical approach cultivates critical thinking skills as students explore themes, symbols, and character motivations within these stories. For example, examining the moral dilemmas faced by mythological figures can lead to discussions about ethics and decision-making in contemporary contexts.

Incorporating mythological realism into education stimulates creativity and imagination. Students are encouraged to create their own narratives, drawing inspiration from mythological themes and characters. This kind of creative work not only improves their writing and storytelling abilities but also boosts their creativity and original ideas.

Psychology: Mythology provides a framework for understanding human behavior and emotions. I am currently exploring the use of storytelling techniques in therapy, drawing parallels between clients' experiences and mythological narratives to help in their personal journeys.

Archetypal Analysis & Emotional Healing through Mythological Realism

Approach: Archetypal Analysis & Emotional Healing

The use of archetypes derived from mythology, as discussed in depth psychology, enables psychologists to analyze personality traits and behavioral patterns. Carl Jung emphasized the importance of archetypes in understanding the collective unconscious, suggesting that these universal symbols can reveal insights into individual psyches. By recognizing these archetypal influences, therapists can guide clients toward self-discovery and personal growth.

Also, mythological realism can facilitate emotional healing by allowing individuals to engage with their feelings in a narrative context. By relating personal experiences to mythological stories, clients can gain catharsis and insight, making it easier to process trauma and emotional pain. This narrative approach can be particularly effective in trauma-informed therapy.