# Carl Jung’s Major Influences and Philosophy: A Lifelong Journey into the Psychology of Religion [Carl Jung's Major Influences and Philosophy](https://gettherapybirmingham.com/), stands as one of the most influential figures in the field of psychology. His contributions to understanding the human mind, particularly through the lenses of religion, spirituality, and the collective unconscious, have left an indelible mark on both psychology and modern spirituality. Jung’s work delves deep into the realms of myth, religion, and the human psyche, offering insights that continue to resonate with therapists, scholars, and individuals on a personal quest for self-discovery.  Early Influences and Development Born in 1875 in Switzerland, Jung was exposed to religious ideas early in his life. His father was a pastor, and his family was steeped in religious tradition. However, Jung’s curiosity about the human mind led him to question the religious dogma he was raised with, sparking a lifelong exploration into the nature of spirituality and the divine. During his early career, Jung worked closely with Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis. While Freud focused heavily on the role of sexuality in human development, Jung was more interested in the spiritual and symbolic aspects of the psyche. This divergence in thought eventually led to a professional split between the two, with Jung pursuing his own path that would later be known as Analytical Psychology. The Collective Unconscious and Archetypes One of Jung’s most significant contributions to psychology is the concept of the collective unconscious. Unlike the personal unconscious, which is unique to each individual, the collective unconscious consists of memories and experiences shared by all humans. Jung believed that this collective unconscious was populated by archetypes—universal symbols and motifs that recur across cultures and epochs. These archetypes, such as the Hero, the Mother, and the Shadow, represent fundamental aspects of the human experience and are often expressed through myths, dreams, and religious symbols. Jung’s exploration of archetypes led him to study various religious traditions, including Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and alchemy. He believed that understanding these symbols and their meanings could provide individuals with deeper insights into their own lives and the nature of the human psyche. Religion as a Psychological Experience Jung’s work on religion is perhaps best encapsulated in his concept of the “God-image.” Unlike Freud, who viewed religion as an illusion rooted in human neurosis, Jung saw religious experiences as vital expressions of the psyche. He argued that the God-image is an archetype within the collective unconscious, representing the totality of the Self. This Self is the guiding force of the psyche, leading individuals toward wholeness and self-realization. For Jung, the psychological exploration of religion was not just about understanding the mind but also about fostering personal growth and healing. He believed that by engaging with religious symbols and myths, individuals could access the deeper layers of their psyche and work towards achieving individuation—the process of becoming the most authentic version of oneself.