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The Landscape of Possibility: A Dynamic Systems Perspective on Archetype and Change

McDowell, Maxson J. (2000) The Landscape of Possibility: A Dynamic Systems Perspective on Archetype and Change. [Journal (On-line/Unpaginated)] (Unpublished)

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Abstract

<p>Pre-existing possibility is recognized in complexity theory (for example, by John Holland: 1995, 27-28) and in cognitive science (for example, by Jeffrey Elman et. al.: 1998, 111-113). A self-organized dynamic system makes manifest a pre-existing possibility. The whirlpool is an example. The human personality must also be a dynamic system. In the personality, however, a pre-existing possibility (archetype) may enter consciousness. It then plays a double role. It had always acted as an unconscious organizing principle; when it reaches consciousness it challenges the conscious identity and may stimulate new development. Clinical evidence is given, together with evidence from biology and from cognitive neuroscience.</p> <p>Current psychoanalytic theory recognizes that the personality can only exist (and can only change) within an intersubjective field of other personalities. But the personality is a dynamic system. Complexity theory shows that such systems change by co-evolving within a field of mutually interacting dynamic systems.</p> <p>These two concepts (of pre-existing possibility and of change within an intersubjective field of co-evolving dynamic systems) are integrated. Their relevance to mythology and to clinical work is discussed.</p>

Item Type:Journal (On-line/Unpaginated)
Keywords:complex dynamic system, self organization, emergent, representational redescription, cognitive psychology, cognitive science, implicit memory, a priori, co-evolution, fitness landscape, Daniel Stern, intersubjective, heterochrony, Plato, Jungian analysis, personification, archetype, image, evolutionary psychology, dream analysis, mythology, spiritual.
Subjects:Psychology > Clinical Psychology
ID Code:1084
Deposited By: McDowell, Doctor Maxson J.
Deposited On:13 Nov 2000
Last Modified:11 Mar 2011 08:54

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