Jung Flashcards
Jung’s view of religion
- Did not think religion was a neurosis, but saw it as something necessary for personal growth
- Postulated the idea of the collective unconscious
What is the collective unconscious?
A part of the unconscious mind consisting of memories and instincts common to all human beings
What are archetypes?
Predispositions that give rise to images in the conscious mind and account for recurring themes in all peoples thoughts
Key archetypes that Jung identified
The persona, the shadow, anima/animus, the self
What is the persona?
Our public image, the ‘mask’ we wear to make a particular impression on others and may also conceal our true identity
What is the shadow?
Our suppressed ‘dark side’. In contrast to the persona, we repress this side of our personality
What are the Anima and animus?
Our inner attitudes that take on characteristics of the opposite sex.
Anima = the archetypal image of a woman present in a man, responsible for moods
Animus = the archetypal image of a man present in a woman! responsible for unreasoned opinion
What is the self?
- Most important archetype
- The midpoint of the personality between conscious and unconscious mind
- Symbolises balance between all opposing qualities that make up the psyche
- Expressed by a mandala
Jung’s understanding of God
- Deep inner reality, not an external being
- Expression of the collective unconscious
- An encounter with ‘the self’ is a religious experience with God
- ‘The self’ is God within us
Define Individuation
The process of attaining wholeness and balance
What is the aim of Individuation?
To balance contradictory archetypes and unite opposites. E.g. We need to see ourselves as capable of both good and evil
How is Individuation linked with Buddhism?
Meditation. The Brahma Viharas - 4 boundless states of kindness, compassion, altruistic joy and composure
