That we place no value on reason can be seen by the fact that truth and myth are taught side by side in our educational institutions as companions of equal value. A teacher may explain the magnificent biology of life, yet his heart is full of evil superstitions. Deep within he believes in a "soul", which magically springs into existence at conception, and equally mysteriously disappears at death. Unfortunately, actions speak louder than words, and the heart louder than the head. Thus a teacher's superstitions have more impact than his science. This week-day criminality at school is then supplemented on the week-end with the myths of "Sunday School".
Myths and lies are invaluable to society in their role of defusing the power of reason. After all, reason can be extremely dangerous if used in earnest: some mad men have even claimed to have discovered the truth through reason. God forbid!