Final answer:
The criticism of myths and rituals in modern society largely stems from the absence of empirical verification and the conflict with individualistic values in a postmodern, electronically-oriented culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Modern society often criticizes myths and rituals for a couple of key reasons. Firstly, as highlighted by the insights of intellectuals like Sigmund Freud and Emil Durkheim, myth and ritual are scrutinized because the supernatural experiences they discuss cannot be empirically verified. This adherence to empirical evidence over religious or mythological claims pushes society towards a more secular outlook. Secondly, the concept of individualism, particularly in Western societies, tends to conflict with the collective ideals often portrayed in myth and ritual. In the era of postmodernism, with its emphasis on individual perspectives and subjective realities, the one-size-fits-all approach of many traditional myths and collective rituals is frequently questioned.
Furthermore, as we transition from a primarily literate to an electronic culture, there is an increased willingness to develop new moral frameworks rather than adhere to those prescribed by ancient stories and traditions. This shift in cultural medium and the rise of personal moral autonomy contribute to the skepticism around the validity and relevance of traditional myths and rituals in our contemporary society.