In today’s technocratic and performance-driven culture, many find themselves plagued by anxiety, depression, loneliness, and a sense of alienation. The collapse of shared mythic frameworks created a void quickly filled by consumerism and external success—stimulating but ultimately hollow substitutes that fail to nourish the soul.
Gaslighting - the psychological manipulation that causes individuals to doubt their own perceptions - is often linked to deception, denial, and power dynamics. In mythology, the Trickster archetype embodies this shadow aspect, distorting reality to serve its own ends. A striking example comes from Norse mythology: Loki and the death of Balder.
Compassion and love are not mere luxuries. As the source both of inner and external peace, they are fundamental to the continued survival of our species." (The Dalai Lama) In Buddhist teachings compassion is defined as the heart that trembles in the face of suffering. Many spiritual traditions and world religions regard compassion as one of the highest values.