Approach Quote by Carl Jung
“Our mania for rational explanations obviously has its roots in our fear of metaphysics, for the two were always hostile brothers. Hence, anything unexpected that approaches us from the dark realm is regarded either as coming from outside and, therefore, as real, or else as a hallucination and, therefore, not true. The idea that anything could be real or true which does not come from outside has hardly begun to dawn on contemporary man.”
About This Quote
Rational explanations stem from fear of metaphysics; unknown phenomena are seen as external or illusory.
In simple terms: Fear of metaphysics drives rationalism;
Key Takeaway
Challenge fear of the unknown.
Themes
philosophy
psychology
metaphysics
rationalism
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- spirituality
- creative arts
- personal growth
Key Concepts
human cognition
belief systems
science
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we fear metaphysical ideas?
- How can we balance reason and mystery?
A Different Perspective
Rationalism can dismiss valuable intuition.
![“The self is defined psychologically as the psychic totality of the individual. Anything that a [person] postulates as being a greater totality than [oneself] can become a symbol of the self. For this reason the symbol of the self is not always as total as the definition would require.” quote by Carl Jung](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/251/carl-jung-274_defined_the-self-is-defined-psychologically-as-t_7148.jpg)
