We are all descended from the harems of kings, who somehow talked other men into fighting to preserve aristocracy. How did those kings and priests and bards manage such a spectacular trick, over and over again... and is there any chance of escaping that cycle? Does it start with telling Joseph Campbell to shove off, and reclaiming the art of storytelling for the people? For progress and freedom?

David Brin is a scientist, speaker, technical consultant and world-known author. His novels have been New York Times bestsellers, winning multiple Hugo, Nebula and other awards. At least a dozen have been translated into more than twenty languages.

We are all descended from the harems of kings, who somehow talked other men into fighting to preserve aristocracy. How did those kings and priests and bards manage such a spectacular trick, over and over again... and is there any chance of escaping that cycle? Does it start with telling Joseph Campbell to shove off, and reclaiming the art of storytelling for the people? For progress and freedom?

David Brin is a scientist, speaker, technical consultant and world-known author. His novels have been New York Times bestsellers, winning multiple Hugo, Nebula and other awards. At least a dozen have been translated into more than twenty languages.

http://ieet.org/archive/bpcs09-brin.mp3