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Political Passions and Jungian Psychology: Social and Political Activism in Analysis


Synopsis


In this book, a multidisciplinary and international selection of Jungian clinicians and academics discuss some of the most compelling issues in contemporary politics.

Presented in five parts, each chapter offers an in-depth and timely discussion on themes including migration, climate change, walls and boundaries, future developments, and the psyche. Taken together, the book presents an account of current thinking in their psychotherapeutic community as well as the role of practitioners in working with the results of racism, forced relocation, colonialism, and ecological damage.

Ultimately, this book encourages analysts, scholars, psychotherapists, sociologists, and students to actively engage in shaping current and future political, socio-economic, and cultural developments in this increasingly complex and challenging time.

Carta, Stefano

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction: Jung, Politics, and the Psyche

* Jung's theory of the collective unconscious suggests that all humans share archetypal patterns and symbols.
* Example: The archetype of the shadow may manifest as political figures who embody repressed or denied aspects of society.

Chapter 2: The Political Shadow: Narcissism, Power, and Projection

* Narcissism and power-hungry leaders can arise when the political shadow is not acknowledged and integrated.
* Example: Adolf Hitler used projection to blame Germany's problems on Jews and other scapegoats.

Chapter 3: The Political Anima: Idealization and Disillusionment

* The anima archetype represents the feminine qualities that can be projected onto political figures or ideologies.
* Example: Obama's "hope and change" campaign inspired idealization, but disillusionment followed as unrealistic expectations were unmet.

Chapter 4: The Political Animus: Domination and Aggression

* The animus archetype represents the masculine qualities that can manifest in political aggression and domination.
* Example: The neo-Nazi movement uses animus-driven violence and hostility against perceived threats.

Chapter 5: The Political Self: Individuation and Social Responsibility

* Individuation involves integrating the shadow, anima, and animus within the psyche.
* Example: Nelson Mandela's journey from prisoner to president illustrates the evolution of the political self that transcends personal and collective conflicts.

Chapter 6: The Wound and the Healing: Trauma and Political Activism

* Trauma and social injustice can lead to political wounds and activism.
* Example: The trauma of slavery and racism has fueled civil rights movements that seek to heal these wounds.

Chapter 7: The Call to Action: Political Transformation and the Hero's Journey

* Jungian psychology can guide individuals through the hero's journey, from facing the shadow to embracing social responsibility.
* Example: Greta Thunberg's environmental activism exemplifies the journey of fulfilling a political calling.

Chapter 8: The Shadow of the Other: Enemy Images and Conflict Resolution

* Identifying and confronting the shadow of the other is crucial for breaking down barriers and resolving conflicts.
* Example: The Arab-Israeli conflict is an example of enemy images perpetuating mistrust and violence.

Chapter 9: The Political Unconscious: Dreams, Symbols, and the Collective

* Dreams and symbols provide access to the collective unconscious and can inform political understandings.
* Example: Analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of a world without prejudice has inspired generations of civil rights activists.

Chapter 10: Conclusion: Jungian Psychology and the Future of Politics

* Jungian psychology offers insights into political dynamics and empowers individuals to work towards a more just and equitable world.
* It emphasizes the need for integrating shadow aspects, embracing diversity, and pursuing collective healing through dialogue and activism.