A comparison of the theory and practice of Jungian, archetypal, and Buddhist psychology from a nondual and postmodern perspective

A comparison between Jungian, archetypal, and Buddhist psychology was undertaken to identify mutual connections in their approach to suffering and its alleviation. The research focuses on the nondual, postmodern aspects of these traditions which question the Cartesian dichotomies between self and other, knower and known, and spirit, soul, and world. As such, the Middle Way of Buddhism is similar to the middle territory of soul and imagination.; In Buddhist thought, suffering is caused by the illusion that we are separate from our experience. Realizing the fundamental interdependent and impermanent nature of life frees one from this limited viewpoint. Both Buddhism and depth psychology deconstruct the habitual ego and help us recognize our essential "no-thingness." Jung's concept of the Self, the polytheistic perspective of archetypal psychology, and the Buddhist concept of no-self (anatta) are discussed as perspectives which are liberating in this regard.; Archetypal and imaginal psychology deepen the links between Buddhism and depth psychology by their emphasis on the phenomenology of images, process, and soul as a mode of perception which illuminates the dynamic and metaphorical nature of existence. Buddhist teachings emphasize a similar experientially based openness and nonjudgmental attitude towards life. Both traditions recognize that healing is to be found in accepting life as it is, and they offer ways to increase equanimity and compassion in the face of life's difficulties.; Vipassana (insight meditation) and mindfulness practice are compared to the archetypal dreamwork methods of Aizenstat, Hinman, Sardello, and Watkins. Both techniques help reduce rigid identification with habitual consciousness (the tendency to reify and literalize life); they increase our tolerance for ambiguity, multiplicity, and change; and they enhance our appreciation of the "suchness" and soulful qualities of life.; A natural result of these perspectives is the extension of psychology and spiritual practice into the world whether by tending the world soul or bringing compassionate awareness and action into daily personal life. Engaged Buddhism and ecopsychology are compared as parallel movements within their respective traditions which seek to heal the separation between self and world. Implications for the field are discussed.