In times of crisis, the collective longing for order, orientation, and strong leadership intensifies — often finding expression in the fascination with authoritarian figures.  What lies beneath this dynamic?

In his writings between the two world wars, C.G. Jung already made some insightful comments on this subject.  The ideas expressed there and his concept of the human being can help us to understand the unconscious fears, projections, and shadow elements, which shape the contemporary collective behaviour.  Such patterns are not completely new; they echo ancient human experiences preserved in myths, fairy tales, and cultural memory.

By engaging with this archetypal material, we gain insight into the psychological roots of today’s challenges — and into the resources that may help us face them.  Jung’s perspective invites us to meet the darkness not with fear, but with awareness, courage, and the willingness to grow or to transform, individually and collectively.

Renate Daniel, MD studied medicine at the University of Heidelberg and specialised in the fields of psychiatry and psychotherapy. She is a Jungian analyst, training analyst/supervisor the former Director of Programs at the C.G. Jung Institute in Zurich and, now a member of the Curatorium.

She also works as a specialist at the C.G. Jung Outpatient’s Clinic in Zurich, is a member of the Scientific Management Board of the International Society of Depth Psychology (IGT) a member of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Lindau Psychotherapy Weeks (LPTW), held in Germany, and a member of The Susan Bach Foundation.