Energizing myth

Energizing myth is an idomatic phrase that GeneRally means an "ideology". Furthermore, it is believed that this ideology will inspire action although the facts behind it maybe in doubt because it is a myth. It's used by different authors in different contexts.

Some of the notable usages include French philosopher Georges Sorel who held that the general strike would never really happen and was only an "energizing myth" to gather supporters. Martin Green argued that the adventure stories of the 18th and 19th centuries were the "energizing myth of English Imperialism". Another example of its application would be manifest destiny "energized" the nation to fulfill its "destiny". Italian historian Federico Chabod said the Italian Renaissance was a self-fulfilling prophecy, people at the time believed they were doing something different and unique in history, this myth energized them, and so they did (as the preceding theory holds) do something different.

Realities

Some philosophers have argued that having energizing myths is essential to any political movement. Yet, it is questionable as to whether it is necessary for this myth to be spontaneously created by society or manufactured by the movement's leaders.