The Myths of Innovation

Appendix A. Research and recommendations

This appendix will fuel the curious: I’ve provided copious notes for anyone seeking more knowledge about the topics covered throughout this book. There are two bibliographies—one annotated, the other ranked—and a summary of other research used to support my writing. Good luck; let me know what gems you find.

Annotated bibliography

Myths and mythology

There are many types of myths, but in this book I focused on the ones people take to be literal facts, though there is clear evidence to the contrary. Other kinds of myths, such as those found in cultural mythologies (e.g., Greek), are generally not taken literally and serve a different purpose for people who read and enjoy them. I had initially planned to explore such myths in this book as well, but as it developed, the book centered on the pejorative kind. To explore the power of these kinds of myths, here are my two favorite books.

Campbell, Joseph and Bill Moyers. The Power of Myth. Anchor, 1991.

The most accessible book in the Joseph Campbell canon. It’s a set of interviews conducted by Bill Moyers that covers many of the major themes in Campbell’s other works. Of prime importance is that this text explains why myths matter, how they function, and their relevance to today’s challenges. If you like this book, follow up with Campbell’s Myths to Live By (Souvenir Press Ltd, 1995).

Armstrong, Karen. ...