Abstract
This thesis comprises an exploratory study of the dynamic of communication symbols during growth and transcendence cycles of the unique individual. It moreover explores how the quintessence of the individual, the quantum self, transforms itself through the use of intrapsychic communication. The exploration focuses on the confluence of a subjective, inner experiential reality and reality as a social construct.
This inner, subjective and experiential reality of the individual relates to the correspondence between the transcendence of consciousness and the creation of meaning derived from the Jungian constructs of archetypal images, symbols and myths. The eclectic nature of the study necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, and consequently, theories and constructs in Depth and Transpersonal Psychology, the New Physics (Quantum Physics), Complexity and Chaos Theories, Mysticism, and Philosophy are explored and integrated with contemporary communication notions of the self, symbols and consciousness. Integration and inclusiveness consequently form the bedrock of this study.
Archetypal communication symbols are considered as the derivatives of a subjective, inner reality. The exploration and comprehension of an inner reality are considered to be of prime significance to the transcendence of the self: the individual as a unique multifarious being. An archetypal and mythical semiotic textual analysis of ‘The Alchemist’ by Paolo Coehlo, and an individual case analysis of dream symbols and a self-report based on the interpretation of a dream theme by using active imagination indicate that a transcendental spirituality, and consequently an inner, subjective transcendental reality are imminent in the individual. An intrinsic need for equanimity and unity is reflected in the images, symbols and myths of the Self as archetype of meaning nested in the collective unconscious.
Ensuing from the exploration in this study, an experiential and ‘lived’ theory and model of the dynamic process of intrapsychic communication are described and depicted. Moreover, the employment of archetypal images, symbols and myths of the Self during intrapsychic communication are described and contrasted with a complex adaptive system. The relationship between the self, consciousness, and intrapsychic communication is hence depicted and described in terms of an experiential theory of intrapsychic communication as a complex adaptive system iterating between balance and harmony, and chaos.
Intrapsychic communication, which represents all the levels of communication within the Self with its corresponding levels of consciousness, facilitates both awareness and integration of the inner subjective reality, and the external socio-cultural reality of the ego which is at the core of the Self. It is asserted that the transcendence of consciousness cannot be experienced as a distinct experience. Rather, intrapsychic communication facilitates a sense and experience of the Self by an individual through the use of archetypal images, symbols and myths as represented in dream experiences of an individual and the text of a modern narrative.
The inclusion of the archetypal spiritual dimension of the Self and the indication of an intrinsic need for wholeness, unity and transcendence in intrapsychic communication, alludes to a shared innate and universal heritage which cuts across all cultural and racial boundaries.
Since the study is of an exploratory nature suggestions for further study and research are also made.
Dr. H.L. Venter