- What do we mean when we say that Jung’s theory is deterministic? (Think about the concept of determinism within psychology for your answer.)
Determinism is a concept in philosophy that suggests that it is possible to predict all human behavior since they all have a cause. Determinism proposes that free will is like fantasy, therefore, meaning that the behavior of human beings relies on external or internal factors that we cannot control. The theory of Jung is deterministic since he focuses on urging people to focus on their personalities and inner selves to discover their purpose in life. For example, he states one way of accomplishing individuation is by searching our personal qualities hidden within our inner personalities.
- How might the study of personality be different in a more collectivistic culture?
The study of personality differs from that of a collectivistic culture in several ways. For example, a personality study focuses on assessing the qualities and traits of a person while a collectivistic culture focuses on the characters of a group of people. Individuals in a collectivistic culture tend to work together towards achieving a common goal, while personality involves working alone to attain personal values and desires. However, a person can conduct a personality study while in a collectivistic culture, but one requires to set aside their own time away from the group.
- Take the Archetype test (link on slide 6). Do you agree or disagree with the findings? Why or why not?
I agree with the findings of the archetype test since the results relate to how I view myself to be in the future. For example, the analysis predicted that I will make a good parent in the future, which has always been my anticipation and desire. This test is an emphasis on Jung’s theory of individuation that one should regularly take time to evaluate their characters and behavior. Self-exploration enables one to have an in-depth understanding of themselves.
- According to Jung, what is individuation, and how do we achieve it? Please answer in your own words as much as possible.
Individuation, according to Jung, refers to the ability of an individual to discover themselves by exploring their inner personalities. One achieves individuation by examining their characters and their values. Jung notes that lack of individuation leads to people believing in delusions and things that are not real in life. It is, therefore, important for people to take time and strive to follow Jung’s advice on exercise individuation, which helps to make life more bearable.
- What was your reaction to what the Tibetan monks (link on slide 11) did with their Mandala? er
It looks funny that people preserved some sand, perhaps to remind them that they witness the performance of the ritual. I thought that the monks must have a lot of patience to make the sand painting for four days, especially the part where they seemed to carefully decorate the art following a pattern only to sweep it up after completion. However, I came to realize that it was worth the while since it symbolizes life showing that nothing in life lasts forever. People should, therefore, learn to disconnect themselves from things and people at some point in their life no matter how beautiful or attractive they look.