Spring 81: The Psychology of Violence

This issue considers various types of violence (terrorism, war, intrapsychic violence, violence within families, imaginal violence, violence in literature) from the perspective of depth psychology and offers insights on addressing their effects. Some of the many questions explored include: What psychological dynamics underlie terrorism and war? What Greek myths help us understand intrapsychic violence and violence in families? How can we understand a kind of violence that destroys not just the beauty of the world but our ability to experience beauty itself, when imagination is no longer possible? Does the portrayal of violence in literature activate the hunger for violently metaphorical language and imagination, and actually lessen literal violence? Can Native traditions and ancient rituals offer modern society insight into the struggles experienced by returning veterans, their families, and communities? What roles do reconciliation and forgiveness play in the aftermath of violence?