Friday, May 7, 2010

Facts and stories

A fact, on the other hand is supported by some scientific evidence. A fact is different from the sense that it has some written records, proven logics or events whereas myths are typical word of mouth stories. For instance, in ancient times, we used to believe that thunderstorms are caused by gods. But as the science developed, logical explanation of thunderstorms was explained to the world and then it became a fact from a myth. There is no scientific explanation or proof of a particular story or a myth. No one really knows whether stories told in Greek, Hindu or Roman mythology actually took place. But as we have been told these stories by our previous generation thousands of times, we want to believe them. We like to read, hear and relish these myths.

There are hardly any myths that have scientific back-up and yet, they are part of almost all the cultures of the world. Whether it’s Hindu, Greek, Roman, Chinese, Egyptian, Nordic or Native American culture, they all offer rich collection of mythological stories. Myths are usually in form of a story. These stories cannot be explained through scientific reasoning. They are just believed to be true. Facts are more objective, reliable and provable in nature. If myths are more of generational thoughts and beliefs, facts are evidence and can be proved. Myths cannot be explained or disproved or proven but facts can be explained and can be disproven.
A fact, on the other hand is supported by some scientific evidence. A fact is different from the sense that it has some written records, proven logics or events whereas myths are typical word of mouth stories. For instance, in ancient times, we used to believe that thunderstorms are caused by gods. But as the science developed, logical explanation of thunderstorms was explained to the world and then it became a fact from a myth. There is no scientific explanation or proof of a particular story or a myth. No one really knows whether stories told in Greek, Hindu or Roman mythology actually took place. But as we have been told these stories by our previous generation thousands of times, we want to believe them. We like to read, hear and relish these myths.

There are hardly any myths that have scientific back-up and yet, they are part of almost all the cultures of the world. Whether it’s Hindu, Greek, Roman, Chinese, Egyptian, Nordic or Native American culture, they all offer rich collection of mythological stories. Myths are usually in form of a story. These stories cannot be explained through scientific reasoning. They are just believed to be true. Facts are more objective, reliable and provable in nature. If myths are more of generational thoughts and beliefs, facts are evidence and can be proved. Myths cannot be explained or disproved or proven but facts can be explained and can be disproven.

Myths and legends

We humans have always been fascinated with myths, fables and legends. They are all around us. Go to any part of the world and you will find fascinating myths that have been in circulation since ages. The word ‘Myth’ comes from a Greek word ‘Mythos’ meaning word of mouth. In simple words, myths are defined as very old stories. These stories don’t provide us with any proof of origin but they are in existence since centuries.

Myths, legends and fables have always been passed from one generation to another in oral fashion. The popularity of myths can be credited to fascinating stories of Gods, legends and mythological characters. Myths contain deep meanings. Most of the mythical tales are also considered as a part of religions because of the dominance of stories related to gods and supreme beings. Myths have hidden moral lessons that have kept inspiring generations of humans.