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The Origins of Transpersonal Psychology

Hazel Guest

British Journal of Psychotherapy September 1, 1989 DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-0118.1989.tb01262.x (opens in new tab)

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Characteristics Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed
Citations 15
Key points Argues that transpersonal psychology's core concepts are drawn from earlier traditions: the self/ego distinction from Eastern philosophies, imagery as a means of contacting unconscious material from Western and Eastern esoteric practices (later developed by Jung and Assagioli), and modern research into transcendental altered states beginning with Maslow's work on peak-experiences.

Abstract

ABSTRACT. This paper discusses some of the concepts in the theory and practice of transpersonal psychology and the sources from which they have been derived. The basic concept of the ‘self as distinct from the‘ego’is characteristic of most Eastern philosophies. The use of imagery as a means of contacting unconscious material can be traced back through the esoteric practices of both West and East, its recent applications having been developed by Carl Jung and Roberto Assagioli. Abraham Maslow began modern research into transcendental altered states of consciousness with his research on peak‐experiences.

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