Malan, Gert Jacobus2016-11-072016-11-072016-07-15Malan G. J., 2016, ‘Mythology, Weltanschauung, symbolic universe and states of consciousness’, HTS Teologiese Studies/ Theological Studies 72(1), a3243. http://dx.DOI.org/ 10.4102/hts.v72i1.3243.0259-9422 (print)2072-8050 (online)10.4102/hts.v72i1.3243http://hdl.handle.net/2263/57702This article investigates whether different religious (mythological) worldviews can be described as alternative and altered states of consciousness (ASCs). Differences between conscious and unconscious motivations for behaviour are discussed before looking at ASCs, Weltanschauung and symbolic universes. Mythology can be described both as Weltanschauung and symbolic universe, functioning on all levels of consciousness. Different Weltanschauungen constitute alternative states of consciousness. Compared to secular worldviews, religious worldviews may be described as ASCs. Thanks to our globalised modern societies, the issue is even more complex, as alternate modernities lead to a symbolic multiverse, with individuals living in a social multiverse.en© 2016. The Authors. Licensee: AOSIS. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.MythologySymbolic multiverseSocial multiverseAltered states of consciousness (ASCs)Conscious motivations for behaviourUnconscious motivations for behaviourTheology articles SDG-04SDG-04: Quality educationTheology articles SDG-10SDG-10: Reduced inequalitiesTheology articles SDG-16SDG-16: Peace, justice and strong institutionsTheology articles SDG-17SDG-17: Partnerships for the goalsArticle