Jung’s notion of a “splinter psyche” – a fragmented aspect of psyche operating autonomously as if it possessed its own intrinsic wholeness and volition - is a very apt descriptor for humanity at large these days. Modern humans do not seem to know where they belong or fit in the larger natural order and are increasingly finding themselves at odds with the biologically attuned processes supporting life on the planet.
Through a juxtaposition and weaving of perspectives from Jung’s writings and other diverse fields (depth psychology, neuroscience, ecology, evolutionary theory, and indigenous traditions), this lecture explores the dynamics of psyche at the juncture of human experience and the greater natural world. Examining what appears to be a parallel process of degradation in our time - one at the level of nature (environment) and the other at the level of human psyche (both individual and collective) - this presentation will speak to the interrelatedness of these processes and the imperative to address them concurrently in order to bring about substantive change in both.
By reflecting on the evolutionary history of our species and our co-evolution with myriad other life forms, we will also consider the pathways for deep nature connection within our internal architecture and the spiritual implications for finding our way home.
Friday Lecture Learning Objectives
Recommended Readings
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