Skip to content

Carl-jung Quote by C.G. Jung

“The erotic instinct is something questionable, and will always be so whatever a future set of laws may have to say on the matter. It belongs, on the one hand, to the original animal nature of man, which will exist as long as man has an animal body. On the other hand, it is connected with the…” quote by C.G. Jung
Download Open image
““The erotic instinct is something questionable, and will always be so whatever a future set of laws may have to say on the matter. It belongs, on the one hand, to the original animal nature of man, which will exist as long as man has an animal body. On the other hand, it is connected with the highest forms of the spirit. But it blooms only when the spirit and instinct are in true harmony. If one or the other aspect is missing, then an injury occurs, or at least there is a one-sided lack of balance which easily slips into the pathological. Too much of the animal disfigures the civilized human being, too much culture makes a sick animal.””

C.G. Jung

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Dual Nature of Instinct and Spirit, 1938

Human sexuality balances animal instinct and spiritual harmony; excess of either leads to imbalance.

In simple terms: Balance instinct and spirit for health.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate harmony between desire and higher values.

Themes

balance sexuality spirituality psychology

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • personal growth
  • therapy
  • cultural norms

Key Concepts

dualism integration

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you integrate instinct with higher purpose?
  • What signs show imbalance in your life?
A Different Perspective

Cultural suppression may hinder healthy expression.

3.5 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by C.G. Jung

Explore all 133 C.G. Jung quotes

More Carl-jung quotes

Browse all 18 Carl-jung quotes