Apophatic elements in the theory and practice of psychoanalysis: Pseudo-Dionysius and C.G. Jung

Henderson, David (2014) Apophatic elements in the theory and practice of psychoanalysis: Pseudo-Dionysius and C.G. Jung. Research in Analytical Psychology and Jungian Studies . Routledge/Psychology Press. ISBN 9780415857840. [Book]

Abstract

This book considers apophatic elements in the theory and practice of psychoanalysis through an examination of Pseudo-Dionysius and C.G. Jung. Pseudo-Dionysius brought together Greek and Biblical currents of negative theology and the via negativa. In this book Henderson discusses how the psychology of Jung can be read as a continuation and extension of the apophatic tradition and identifies neoplatonic themes throughout Jung’s work.
Chapters consider:

•Jung’s discussion of opposites, including his reception of Nicholas of Cusa’s concept of the coincidence of opposites

•The role of the transcendent function in Jungian psychology

•How motifs in Pseudo-Dionysius’ Ecclesiastical Hierarchy resonate with contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
The in-depth examination of primary sources in this comprehensive volume provides a platform for research into apophasis in the wider field of psychoanalysis. It will prove valuable reading for scholars and analysts of Jungian psychology studying religion and mysticism.

Actions (login required)

View Item