The concept of synchronicity is arguably both the most popular and the most misunderstood of all of the concepts coming from the field of Jungian Psychology. The common definition for synchronicity, i.e., “meaningful coincidence”, easily becomes misapplied to any cluster of events that may dimly have shared significance or emotional impact. Whereas for Jung, synchronicity was seen as a means by which the human person can come to know that the two apparently separate worlds of mind and matter are actually two aspects of the same underlying reality. Jung’s notions about synchronicity challenge not only our self-understanding, but also our collective assumptions about the so-called outer and inner worlds.
In this course, participants will first explore the range and profundity of Jung’s classical essays on synchronicity. Following this, post-Jungian extensions and expansions of the classical type of synchronicity will be studied through the writings of several second and third generation Jungian analysts, revealing the continuing refinement of the field of Jungian Psychology as a clinical paradigm. Next, because they are so prevalent in the popular discussions of synchronicity, an expanded conceptualization of synchronicity as the co-occurrence of two external events linked not by cause and effect but instead by their shared and emotionally charged significance will be explored. Divination will then be studied as an example of evoked synchronicity, and deja-vu will also be covered as an example of what may be called “inverted synchronicity”: synchronicity in which the external event stimulates the recall of an inner fantasy (or memory) that corresponds in some way to the external event. Finally, an opportunity for participants to ask questions and further the discussion of this fascinating topic will be provided.