Final answer:
The term 'narrative paradigm' is often preferred to 'myth' as it signifies the broader foundation of stories and beliefs that shape societal realities and are not limited to ancient tales. It captures both historical and modern narratives that form a nation's identity and values, while recognizing the role that myths also play in cultural cohesion and moral teachings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term narrative paradigm is preferred over that of 'myth' as it encompasses a broader conceptualization of shared beliefs and values within a culture. While myths are often seen as archaic stories that may or may not be believed, a narrative paradigm suggests a foundational framework through which societies understand and construct their reality, embodying both historical and contemporary narratives that provide cohesion and identity to a nation. For instance, the United States’ narrative of being a land of opportunity, despite its complex history, is part of its narrative paradigm—a set of stories that informs cultural beliefs and collective behavior.
Myths serve a similar purpose but are frequently associated with ancient or traditional tales that are outside the realm of empirical verification. However, they, too, hold power within societies, as they encapsulate more than just stories; they represent moral truths and provide order and coherence by explaining, unifying, and ordering experience. Modern society utilizes both myths and the narrative paradigm to perpetuate values, identity, and historical perceptions that contribute to social unity and understanding.
Georges Sorel highlighted that myths are not mere fabrications but are deeply embedded in the collective consciousness, shaping behavior and simplifying the world to identify allies and adversaries. This perspective is valuable in acknowledging the complex role that narrative paradigms and myths play in shaping collective beliefs and actions within a society.