Father Bill W. God and Addiction: Interview with author, David Schoen
54 snips
Sep 29, 2021 
David Schoen, a Jungian therapist and author of The War of the Gods in Addiction, dives deep into the complex psychology of addiction. The discussion illuminates Carl Jung's impactful correspondence with AA co-founder Bill Wilson, exploring spirituality in recovery. Topics include the transformative journey of addiction, the vital role of community, and the significance of surrendering to a higher power. Schoen emphasizes the need for personal agency and the power of shadow work in achieving true sobriety, urging listeners to rethink their approach to recovery.
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Addiction as Spiritual Thirst
- Addiction reflects a spiritual thirst for wholeness often misdirected into substances like alcohol.
- Jung viewed this craving as a universal, non-religious urge towards individuation and connection with a higher power.
Three Paths to Transformation
- Jung identified three paths to spiritual transformation: an act of grace, honest contact with friends, and higher education beyond rationalism.
- These align closely with the key elements of AA's recovery process: surrender, fellowship, and spiritual growth.
Addiction as Archetypal Evil
- Addiction involves an archetypal evil force beyond personal willpower, comparable to the devil's power.
- This explains why overcoming addiction requires more than willpower; it demands spiritual insight or protective community.
