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The Hidden Half


Synopsis


Why does one smoker die of lung cancer but another live to 100? The answer is 'The Hidden Half' - those random, unknowable variables that mess up our attempts to comprehend the world. We humans are very clever creatures - but we're idiots about how clever we really are. In this entertaining and ingenious book, Blastland reveals how in our quest to make the world more understandable, we lose sight of how unexplainable it often is. The result - from GDP figures to medicine - is that experts know a lot less than they think. Filled with compelling stories from economics, genetics, business, and science, The Hidden Half is a warning that an explanation which works in one arena may not work in another. Entertaining and provocative, it will change how you view the world.

Michael Blastland

Summary

Chapter 1: The Unconscious

* The unconscious mind is a vast reservoir of information, emotions, and memories that we are not consciously aware of.
* It influences our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in ways that we may not realize.
* Example: A person may have an unresolved fear of spiders, even though they have never had a bad experience with them. This fear may be rooted in a childhood memory that the person has repressed into their unconscious.

Chapter 2: The Hidden的力量

* The unconscious mind is a powerful force that can both help and hinder us.
* It can drive us to achieve our goals or hold us back from reaching our full potential.
* Example: A person who has a deep-seated belief that they are not good enough may be subconsciously sabotaging their own success.

Chapter 3: The Shadow

* The shadow is the dark side of our psyche that contains our repressed desires, fears, and weaknesses.
* It is often hidden from view, but it can emerge in our dreams, fantasies, and other unconscious behaviors.
* Example: A person who presents a polished and professional exterior may have a hidden shadow side that engages in unethical or even illegal activities.

Chapter 4: The Anima and Animus

* The anima is the feminine archetype that exists within the male psyche.
* The animus is the masculine archetype that exists within the female psyche.
* These archetypes can influence our relationships, creativity, and overall sense of well-being.
* Example: A man who is in touch with his anima may be more sensitive and compassionate, while a woman who is in touch with her animus may be more assertive and independent.

Chapter 5: The Transcendent Function

* The transcendent function is a process that integrates the unconscious and conscious minds.
* It allows us to become more aware of our hidden motivations and to find balance and wholeness in our lives.
* Example: A person who is able to integrate their shadow may become more self-aware and accepting of their own complexities.

Chapter 6: The Individuation Process

* Individuation is a lifelong process of psychological development that leads to a greater sense of self-awareness, purpose, and meaning.
* It involves integrating the unconscious and conscious minds, as well as the various aspects of the psyche.
* Example: A person who is in the process of individuation may experience periods of self-reflection, questioning, and growth.

Chapter 7: The Archetypal World

* The archetypal world is a realm of universal symbols and images that are shared by all cultures.
* These archetypes can help us to understand our own lives and the world around us.
* Example: The archetype of the hero represents the journey of self-discovery and the challenges that we must overcome to achieve our goals.

Chapter 8: The Great Mother

* The Great Mother is an archetype that represents the feminine principle of creation, fertility, and nurturing.
* She can be seen in many different forms, such as the Virgin Mary, Mother Nature, and the Earth.
* Example: A person who is drawn to the Great Mother archetype may have a deep connection to the natural world and a desire to create and nurture.

Chapter 9: The Trickster

* The Trickster is an archetype that represents chaos, creativity, and change.
* He is often a mischievous figure who disrupts the established order and challenges our assumptions.
* Example: A person who is drawn to the Trickster archetype may be a nonconformist who enjoys breaking the rules and pushing boundaries.

Chapter 10: The Wise Old Man

* The Wise Old Man is an archetype that represents wisdom, experience, and guidance.
* He can appear in many different forms, such as a mentor, a teacher, or a sage.
* Example: A person who is drawn to the Wise Old Man archetype may be seeking guidance and wisdom in their lives.

Chapter 11: The Goal of Individuation

* The goal of individuation is to become a whole and integrated individual who is able to live in harmony with themselves and the world around them.
* It is a lifelong process that requires patience, self-reflection, and a willingness to face the challenges of the unconscious.
* Example: A person who has achieved individuation may be a self-aware, compassionate, and balanced individual who is able to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.