A ubiquitous symbol of consciousness and psyche, the image of the eye has made its presence known throughout time in mythology, religious text, literature, and dream analysis. Carl Jung often wrote on the symbolism of the eye and noted its reoccurrence and relevance in the imagination of modern individuals. He argued that through its penetrating gaze, the autonomous Self is asking for nothing less than recognition and redemption.
Edward Edinger elaborates on this with his depth psychological analysis on the Eye of God. By merging these elements with other iterations on this image of evolving consciousness, we come into contact with what it means to be known by an autonomous or omniscient psyche. On a collective level, eye symbolism has captured the postmodern imagination in a multitude of ways from iconography in popular culture, to surveillance and drone warfare. Why does this potent image bear down upon us at this particular time in history? And what specifically does it require of us?
Considering the act of seeing from another dimension, we ask: how are we to maintain psychic fortitude while watching shadowy, apocalyptic eruptions occurring all around us? Jung was able to survive and derive meaning from a decisive plunge into his own unconscious by maintaining what he called “psychic objectivity.” There is a lot to be learned from this model as we bear witness to a colossal planetary individuation process.
Learning objectives: (2 CEUs available for $10 at the door.)
1) To gain an understanding of the symbolism of the eye through the lens of religious text, literature, mythology, and depth psychology.
2) To comprehend the psychic significance of this symbol in relation to the ego and the Self.
3) To contemplate the eye as an image of conscious awareness that pushes us toward increased consciousness.
4) To understand and potentially integrate the Jungian concept of psychic objectivity.
Speaker biography
Cece W. Briggs earned her PhD in Mythological Studies and Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute. She teaches Spiritual Studies, Jungian Psychology, and Writing in the Liberal Studies Program at Antioch University Seattle.
