The Alphabet Versus the Goddess

The Conflict Between Word and Image

By: Leonard Shlain

Narrated by: Norman Dietz

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

Should be required reading

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

Great Reads

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

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

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.

Listened, then invested in a hard copy for my library

It clearly explained an amazing concept and provided a good review of history and world religions

Fascinating

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