Challenges to Jung's theory

Question 1

Lack of evidence

Answer 1

• it is impossible to empirically prove the existence of the collective unconscious

Question 2

The issue of archetypes

Answer 2

• archetypes are myths and religious of some cultures

- a resemblance between effect doesn’t establish a similarity in their causes

Question 3

The issue of assumption

Answer 3

• Jung makes the assumption that God images and religious beliefs are innate.

Question 4

Gordon Allport’s views

Answer 4

Psychologist Gordon Allport suggests that a better explanation was that the images come from a conformity to culture.

Question 5

Reductionist views

Answer 5

• For Christians a view of Christ as an example of an archetype would be unacceptable
• an experience which stems from the mind cannot be termed religious