Dissertation Title:
The Archetypal Shadow: A Jungian Analysis of Manifestations and Implications for Contemporary American Education
Candidate:
Jody Berger
Date, Time & Place:
July 3, 2024 at 2:00 pm
Virtual
Abstract
What we are witnessing on college and university campuses today threatens institutional
values of open inquiry and critical thinking. As a unique and vital part of society,
institutions of higher education were once viewed as laboratories for ideas. Today���s
display of intellectual intolerance, hostile discourse, and stifled free speech in the name
of ���safety��� threaten this vision. These threats also represent an opportunity for healing.
Applying depth psychological principles to educational theory has the potential for
meaningful educational reform by bringing attention to one-sided tendencies,
acknowledging the shadow aspects within ourselves and society, and fostering uniquely
human qualities of intuition and subjectivity.
Correspondingly, this study investigates the Jungian archetypal shadow as a
guiding metaphor for enhancing educational practices that foster development of the
whole student. Utilizing a hermeneutical analysis of texts that describe the origin,
purpose, and challenges of public education in America, this investigation correlates
current educational landscapes and practices with Jung���s notions of one-sidedness.
Ultimately, it argues for a framework in education that fosters more meaningful and
transformative learning experiences.
- Program/Track/Year: Depth Psychology with Specialization in Jungian and Archetypal Studies, N, 2016
- Chair: Dr. Glen Slater
- Reader: Dr. Jeanne Schul
- External Reader: Dr. Christine Maisto
- Keywords: Archetypes, Coddling, Education, Integration, One-sidedness, Shadow
