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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image Paperback - 1999

by Leonard Shlain

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The author of "Art & Physics" now offers "a fascinating account of the evolution of our male and female ways of knowing" (Clarissa Pinkola Estes, author of" Women Who Run with the Wolves"). 35 illustrations.

Summary

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.

Reader reviews for The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image

From the publisher

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.

First line

Of all the sacred cows allowed to roam unimpeded in our culture, few are as revered as literacy.

Details

  • Title The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image
  • Author Leonard Shlain
  • Binding Paperback
  • Edition English Language
  • Pages 496
  • Volumes 1
  • Language ENG
  • Publisher Penguin Books, New York
  • Publication date 1999-09-01
  • Features Bibliography, Index, Table of Contents
  • ISBN 9780140196016 / 0140196013
  • Weight 0.99 lbs (0.45 kg)
  • Dimensions 8.44 x 5.56 x 1.11 in (21.44 x 14.12 x 2.82 cm)
  • Age range 18 to UP years
  • Grade levels 13 - UP
  • Themes
    • Sex & Gender: Feminine
  • Category Archaeology / Anthropology
  • Library of Congress subjects Language and culture, Patriarchy
  • Library of Congress Catalogue Number 98021673
  • Dewey Decimal Code 302.224

About the author

Leonard Shlain is the author of Art & Physics: Parallel Visions in Space, Time & Light, and The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image. He is the chief of laparoscopic surgery at California Medical Center in San Francisco.

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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)

by Shlain, Leonard

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ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
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Penguin Books, 1999-09-01. paperback. Very Good. 5x1x8. Clean, unmarked pages, minor wear to cover.
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image

The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image

by Shlain, Leonard

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ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
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Penguin Books, 1999. Paperback. Good. Pages can have notes/highlighting. Spine may show signs of wear. ~ ThriftBooks: Read More, Spend Less.Dust jacket quality is not guaranteed.
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)

by Shlain, Leonard

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ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image

The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image

by Shlain, Leonard

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ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess : The Conflict Between Word and Image
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess : The Conflict Between Word and Image

by Shlain, Leonard

  • Used
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ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
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Penguin Publishing Group. Used - Good. Pages intact with minimal writing/highlighting. The binding may be loose and creased. Dust jackets/supplements are not included. Stock photo provided. Product includes identifying sticker. Better World Books: Buy Books. Do Good.
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess : The Conflict Between Word and Image
Stock photo: cover may vary

The Alphabet Versus the Goddess : The Conflict Between Word and Image

by Shlain, Leonard

  • Used
Condition
Used
ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
Quantity available
7
Seller
Item price
A$11.43
Free Delivery to USA

Show details

Description:
Penguin Publishing Group. Used - Good. Pages intact with minimal writing/highlighting. The binding may be loose and creased. Dust jackets/supplements are not included. Stock photo provided. Product includes identifying sticker. Better World Books: Buy Books. Do Good.
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Item price
A$11.43
Free Delivery to USA
The Alphabet Versus the Goddess : The Conflict Between Word and Image
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess : The Conflict Between Word and Image

by Shlain, Leonard

  • Used
Condition
Used
ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
Quantity available
3
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Item price
A$11.43
Free Delivery to USA

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Description:
Penguin Publishing Group. Used - Good. Former library copy. Pages intact with minimal writing/highlighting. The binding may be loose and creased. Dust jackets/supplements are not included. Includes library markings. Stock photo provided. Product includes identifying sticker. Better World Books: Buy Books. Do Good.
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)

by Shlain, Leonard

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  • Paperback
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Binding
Paperback
ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
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Penguin Books, 1999. Softcover. Fair.
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)
Stock photo: cover may vary

The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)

by Shlain, Leonard

  • Used
  • Paperback
Condition
Used
Binding
Paperback
ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
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Penguin, 1999-09-01. paperback. Used: Good. 5.50x1.10x8.40. Buy with confidence. Excellent Customer Service & Return policy.
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A$12.31
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The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)
Stock photo: cover may vary

The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)

by Shlain, Leonard

  • Used
  • Good
  • Paperback
Condition
Good
Binding
Paperback
ISBN 10 / ISBN 13
9780140196016 / 0140196013
Quantity available
1
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Item price
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Description:
Penguin Books. paperback. Good. 5.6x1.2x8.4. Buy with confidence. Excellent Customer Service & Return policy.
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