Interested in Carl Jung But Don’t Know Where To Start? Here Are 3 Resources To Get You Going
Jungian psychology is a rabbit-hole I’m still tumbling down.
I’ve read his books, watched old grainy interviews with him, and dived into the works of associated figures. Believe me when I say you can waste a lot of time just looking for the correct material. Many people who are dying to learn more never do due to picking up the wrong book and giving up.
That’s why I want to share the 3 most fundamental sources I’ve come across, to save you the time I lost.
Jordan Peterson’s university lectures
For many (myself included), Peterson’s skill as an orator and thinker is what brought their attention to Jung in the First place.
There’s no better place to start. Jordan breaks down the ideas of myths, archetypes and individuation in his college course ‘Maps of Meaning’ in his signature style that propelled him to his heights today. If you’re not a fan of the man, but haven’t viewed these lectures, it’s worth giving them a watch.
He’s a remarkably different personality today, politics wasn’t the focus of the course.
The YouTube algorithm will lead you further down the rabbit hole from there.
⭐️ (Bonus) You can listen to the whole course on Spotify HERE, or buy his first book ‘Maps of Meanings’ HERE. But I’ll warn you, both their subject matter is very dense and hard to follow. Only attempt them after you’ve built a base level of knowledge, and are still very keen.
King, Warrior, Magician, Lover
The first book I recommend to everybody. Buy here
Written by two modern Jungian analysts, Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette, this 150 page paperback explains the idea of the archetypes in the most understandable and applicable way I’ve seen. It primarily focuses on male psychology, and the process of passing through life’s phases, but I think females will find its contents just as enlightening.
Alternatively you could read ‘She: understanding feminine psychology’ by Robert A. Johnson, a book I haven’t personally read, but have heard great things about.
Memories, Dreams, Reflections
Jung’s autobiography.
Unlike his collected works (which can be very convoluted) his own book is a beautifully written book, and covers his major beliefs, and how he came to them.
Check it out HERE. And happy reading