Jungian Psychology vs. Buddhist Psychology

In the early 1990s, I immersed myself in Thomas Moore’s book, The Care of the Soul. His insights left a lasting impression on me, inspiring elements of my writing in The Zen Teachings of Jesus. Since then, I have explored several of Moore’s works, including Soul Mates and Dark Nights of the Soul. I find that Jungian psychology, especially as articulated by Moore, offers a unique perspective on the human experience, particularly regarding attachments, suffering, and the role of pleasure in spiritual growth.

The Concept of the Soul
A central theme in Jungian psychology is the concept of the “soul.” To appreciate its significance, we must first clarify what is meant by “soul” in this context and explore its relationship with the Buddhist doctrine of Anatta, which posits the absence of a permanent self or soul. In Jungian thought, the soul is not viewed as a metaphysical or eternal entity; rather, it represents a profound inner dimension of the psyche. For Jung, the soul encompasses our inner experiences, emotions, and the unconscious, linking personal identity to a universal collective unconscious shared across humanity. This understanding of the soul does not contradict the Buddhist teaching of Anatta; instead, it suggests a complementary relationship between the two paradigms.

Diverging Views on Key Themes
While both Jungian and Buddhist psychologies provide valuable insights into our shared human condition, they diverge significantly in their attitudes toward several themes.