February 13 Monthly Meeting
Presenter: John Woodcock PhD
Described as one of Archetypal Psychology’s most brilliant theorists for over 3 decades, Wolfgang Giegerich is “A practicing Jungian analyst…renowned for his dedication to the substance of Jungian thought and for his unparalleled ability to think it through with both rigour and speculative strength” (from back cover of his Collected English Papers).In his many books, essays and seminars Giegerich has also made theoretical claims that have surprised, baffled and perhaps even offended members of the Jungian community.
Giegerich’s criticisms of Archetypal Psychology led to a now famous exchange with Hillman. He challenges our comfortable understanding of some of the most treasured Jungian concepts (the unconscious, archetypes, soul, self, the individual etc) simply by thinking them through to the end. While it is easy to react to Giegerich’s thought, it is far more difficult to understand it. However the rewards that come with making an effort are considerable.
The purpose of this talk is to introduce the thought of Giegerich to the Sydney community by providing some “sign posts” that are essential to understanding his work. From reading his works in depth and also visiting Giegerich in Berlin, John Woodcock will present his understanding of the essential concepts that a reader must grasp in order to “enter” the thought of Wolfgang Giegerich.
John C Woodcock PhD lives in Sydney after returning from the USA in 2003 where he practised as a Jungian Therapist for 17 years. He also underwent a personal analysis over 13 years. John’s first contact with Wolfgang Giegerich was in 1999 and he visited him in Berlin in 2009. John may be reached at jwoodcock@lighthousedownunder.com. His website of the same name displays his books and essays.
