YouTube Lecture presented by the San Diego Friends of Jung
In this compelling lecture, Jungian analyst Edward F. Edinger explores Carl Jung’s central concept of individuation—the lifelong psychological process of becoming one’s true Self through the integration of unconscious material into consciousness.
Edinger presents individuation as a modern myth: a symbolic narrative that offers orientation and meaning in an era where traditional religious and cultural frameworks no longer provide a shared guiding story. Drawing on mythology, history, and depth psychology, he shows how individuation functions as an inner map for modern life, illuminating both personal development and collective challenges.
Key themes explored in the lecture include:
The Christian myth and its psychological significance
The legend of Faust as a metaphor for Western humanity’s struggle with the unconscious
Jung’s discovery of the collective unconscious and the task of reconciling opposing forces within the psyche
This lecture offers a rich and accessible introduction to Jungian thought, inviting viewers to consider individuation not only as a personal journey, but as a meaningful response to the psychological needs of modern humanity.