A critical history of 2012 mythology
Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union January 1, 2011 DOI: 10.1017/s174392131101266x (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe widespread belief that December 21, 2012 would bring physical catastrophes, a transformation of consciousness, or a New Age originated not from ancient Maya sources but from early speculation by credentialed academic experts. This idea grew as it was reinterpreted through speculative, counterculture metaphysics by individuals with both academic and non-academic backgrounds. The article provides a historical review of the key contributions that led to the emergence of the 2012 phenomenon, tracing how scholarly ideas were transformed into popular mythology.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Counterculture Speculation Metaphysics Phenomenon Consciousness |
| Citations | 12 |
| Key finding | Argues that the 2012 phenomenon resulted from early academic speculation later interpreted through counterculture metaphysics. |
Abstract
Abstract The notion that December 21, 2012 will bring physical catastrophes, a transformation of consciousness, or even a New Age is an unanticipated and unintentional consequence of early speculation by credentialed academic experts. It has grown as a result of its subsequent interpretation through the lens of speculative, counterculture metaphysics by individuals with both academic and non-academic backgrounds. This article provides a historical review of the most significant contributions to the emergence of the 2012 phenomenon.