How Understanding of the Four Functions and Importance of Rituals Can Change the View on the World - Essay Example

Mythology provides the human race with a great incentive to rediscover the mysteries of human evolution and motivates them to constantly deconstruct the mysteries of nature. Understanding mythology and myths have significantly influenced my worldview and perspectives on rituals.
The functions reflect not only human desires and hidden aspirations but also encompass the socio-economic order of society that has gradually developed into its present form. Moreover, the myriad variations in human nature and tribes with different traditions and values show that mythology is a living legend that is still pursued by people in different corners of the world. It is their ideals of living and inspires their code of behavior. The first function creates awe amongst the people because the mythical powers of heroes of the mythology, be it Greek, Roman, Christianity, or Hinduism, portray the long journey of heroes into extraordinary adventures which reveal their powers and their desire of defined principles of living. Indeed, the code of behavior is an important issue with heroes. Jesus had led a difficult life but he had proposed a defined way of living that helped people to be organized and live in peace. It is a general message and conforms to the different societies across the world.
The second function promotes the scientific temperament of the universe and reveals human curiosity that wants to untangle the mysteries of nature. The changing nature of the environment within which man lives is awesome in its scope and therefore a constant source of mystery for man to unravel and discover new things about the ordinary stuff. The third function of mythology is hugely pertinent because it defines social order and promotes the need for one in order to live peacefully. It also shows the capitalistic nature of the world where the concept of exchange is an important paradigm for interacting with each other. The development process is a result of the exchange of goods that fulfill the requirements of the human race. Mythology intricately portrays relationships and their usefulness in the overall order of the system.
The last function of mythology represents the psyche of human nature and provokes one to be happy and follow one’s heart. It closely aligns with the contemporary times when materialism has become more important than peace of mind. The function supports different stages of life and reveals that each stage of human development is unique in its scope and requires deep understanding. This would help people to understand self and align it with one’s surrounding so that one is happy. People tend to imitate others which results in unhappiness because each individual is different with different abilities and therefore their needs are also different.