Many would answer: as ethical teaching, passing on knowledge (in a zipped formula), or simply for creative entertainment.
But what if myths were not simply invented by our ancestors, what if they are our innate ability which emerges naturally in times of need?
According to some researcher the desire for mythology is probably carried by our genes. Genes are responsible for patterns of our behaviour, including mental processes. Creating images and stories, visualising them, seeking parallels, reading symbols - all this activates our imagination. And imagination is more important then knowledge, Einstein said.
So mythology is not a mere habit of primitive societies, which - when institutionalized by external rules and priesthood - turns into religion.
Our forefathers passed on to us not only myths but the ability to create, invent and re-invent them. Mythology has not disappeared, and it has not lost its meaning. Myths are very clever metaphors to our own dreams, viewpoints and activities. If individual is ready to open up to the stories of Old and understand their message, he or she may - if not transcend the common life into a heroic adventure - at least gain more meaning, colour and imagination in his or her own life.
And of course we can use them to explore the past as well as the future. Myths are timeless. They still exist, whether in our memory or in 'genes', yet to be awaken. And we may convincingly say:
We are living in the mythical times, too.
