Cody Peterson on CG Jung and Addiction

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Dec 4, 2024

Cody Peterson, author of "The Shadow of a Figure of Light," dives into the intersection of C.G. Jung's theories and addiction recovery. He uncovers the historical ties between Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous, revealing how spirituality plays a critical role in overcoming addiction. Peterson explores the Alcoholic archetype as a guide to enlightenment and critiques traditional notions of good versus evil. Additionally, he discusses the significance of community support and the transformative journey through the 12-step program.

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INSIGHT

Jung and Addiction

Carl Jung's work on the psychology of addiction began with Jaime de Angulo.
De Angulo, a scholar and alcoholic, helped Jung understand the spiritual quest within addiction.

ANECDOTE

Roland Hazard's Influence

Jung treated Roland Hazard, a wealthy alcoholic, but eventually told him he needed a spiritual experience.
Hazard's experience, shared through Ebby Thatcher, led to Bill Wilson's spiritual awakening and the founding of AA.

INSIGHT

12 Steps as Myth

The 12 steps, while seemingly simple, are a modern myth with rich symbolism.
Bill Wilson's use of "we" creates an anonymous human character interacting with a higher power.

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In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts

Close Encounters with Addiction

Gabor Maté

In this book, Dr. Gabor Maté presents a comprehensive and compassionate look at addiction. He argues that addiction is not a moral failure or a genetic disease but rather a result of human development gone awry, often due to childhood trauma. The book includes first-person accounts, case studies, and scientific research to illustrate how addictive behaviors are attempts to self-soothe deep-seated fears and discomforts.

The Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious

Jung, C. G.

Carl Gustav Jung

This book features many of Jung's most important essays on archetypes and the collective unconscious. It explores the idea that there is a deeper, universal level of the unconscious that contains archetypes, which are preexistent thought forms common to all humans. These archetypes manifest in dreams, myths, and fairytales, and play a crucial role in the psychological process of individuation. The essays discuss various archetypes such as the persona, the shadow, the anima or animus, and the self, and how they influence human psychology and behavior. The book also includes a pictorial section with examples of archetypal images drawn by Jung's patients, illustrating the universal nature of these symbols[1][2][5].

Psychology and Religion

Carl Jung

The War Of The Gods In Addiction

David Schoen

Aeon

Carl Jung

The Shadow of a Figure of Light: the Archetype of the Alcoholic and the Journey to Enlightenment

Cody Peterson

Writing the Big Book

William Shabird

Symbols of Transformation

Michael Fordham

Sir Herbert Read

Carl Jung

Gerhard Adler

Alcoholics Anonymous

Bill Wilson

Written primarily by Bill Wilson, one of the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, this book outlines the 12-step program for recovering from alcoholism. It includes personal stories of recovery, explanations of the steps, and chapters targeted at specific audiences such as agnostics, wives, and employers. The book emphasizes the importance of admitting powerlessness over alcohol, seeking help from a higher power, and community support. It has been highly influential and has sold over 37 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling books of all time.