Jung and the Making of Modern Psychology: The Dream of a Science

by Sonu Shamdasani

After decades of myth making, C.G. Jung remains one of the most misunderstood figures in Western intellectual history. This comprehensive study of the origins of his psychology provides a new perspective on the rise of modern psychology and psychotherapy. It reconstructs the reception of Jung's work in the human sciences, and its impact on the social and intellectual history of the twentieth century. The book creates a basis for any future discussion of Jung by opening new vistas in psychology.

Genres: Psychology, Philosophy, Nonfiction, History

404 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Frater · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say...Shamdasani is THE Jung scholar! Even thought he does not mention Richard Noll directly in this book, it certainly can be viewed as an indirect refutation to critics of Jung in genreal. Shamdasani illustrates an exhaustive history and evolution of psychological theory and thought. Jung is placed not only in his educational background, but we get a glimpse at many of the biologists, physicists, anthropologists, and sociologists who backed up Jung and his theories of archetypes, psychological types and the collective unconscious. Shamdasani hopes that Jungian psychology can once again lead the way to synthesize all sciences so we can better understand the human psyche and our place in the cosmos. An excellent read!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this book definitely deserves its five star rating, I’m not recommending that it be read. It is about the historical antecedents to Jung’s theories and it positions him within the context of his time. Written by the pre-eminent Jungian scholar, Sonu Shamdasani, this book is a towering achievement, cogently written and containing no fewer than 24 pages of references. Read it if you’re working on your Ph.D in the history of psychological thought. For me, there were many points of interest and equally as many sections that were way over my head.

[Jack · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book on Jung, as well as the precedents and people involved in his thought.