TALES FROM THE INTERNET: MARGARET MEAD'S LEGACY IN AMERICAN CULTURE

Authors

Merrily Stover, University of Maryland University CollegeFollow

Abstract

This essay explores the importance of Margaret Mead for American society as revealed through the cultural domain of the Internet. By examining sites accessible through popular search engines, the essay analyzes Mead's life using Joseph Campbell's myth of the hero's journey. Mead's legend emphasizes her journey to far places and her return with important gifts of knowledge for society. Mead is also a distinctly American hero by representing values of pioneering, defense of personal freedom, and commitment to bettering society. The recognition of the importance of culture on human behavior, Mead's own life as a role model for people, the wisdom of her quotations, and anthropology itself—which has become synonymous with Mead in the popular mind—are all restorative gifts from Mead, the hero.

Recommended Citation

Stover, Merrily (2005) "TALES FROM THE INTERNET: MARGARET MEAD'S LEGACY IN AMERICAN CULTURE," Pacific Studies Journal: Vol. 28: No. 2, Article 9.
Available at: https://digitalcollections.byuh.edu/pacific-studies-journal/vol28/iss2/9