Man and His Symbols

By: Carl G. Jung

Narrated by: Raj Ghatak

Length: 13 hrs and 6 mins

Publisher's summary

Man and His Symbols owes its existence to one of Jung's own dreams. The great psychologist dreamed that his work was understood by a wide public, rather than just by psychiatrists, and therefore he agreed to write and edit this fascinating book. Here, Jung examines the full world of the unconscious, whose language he believed to be the symbols constantly revealed in dreams. Convinced that dreams offer practical advice, sent from the unconscious to the conscious self, Jung felt that self-understanding would lead to a full and productive life. Thus, the listener will gain new insights into himself from this thoughtful volume, which also illustrates symbols throughout history. Completed just before his death by Jung and his associates, it is clearly addressed to the general listener.

Praise for Man and His Symbols:

“This book, which was the last piece of work undertaken by Jung before his death in 1961, provides a unique opportunity to assess his contribution to the life and thought of our time, for it was also his first attempt to present his life-work in psychology to a non-technical public.... What emerges with great clarity from the book is that Jung has done immense service both to psychology as a science and to our general understanding of man in society, by insisting that imaginative life must be taken seriously in its own right, as the most distinctive characteristic of human beings.” (Guardian)

“Straightforward to read and rich in suggestion.” (John Barkham, Saturday Review Syndicate)

“This book will be a resounding success for those who read it.” (Galveston News-Tribune)

“A magnificent achievement.” (Main Currents)

“Factual and revealing.” (Atlanta Times)

©1964 Estate of C. G. Jung (P)2021 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“This book, which was the last piece of work undertaken by Jung before his death in 1961, provides a unique opportunity to assess his contribution to the life and thought of our time, for it was also his firsat attempt to present his life-work in psychology to a non-technical public.... What emerges with great clarity from the book is that Jung has done immense service both to psychology as a science and to our general understanding of man in society, by insisting that imaginative life must be taken seriously in its own right, as the most distinctive characteristic of human beings.” (Guardian)

“Straighforward to read and rich in suggestion.” (John Barkham, Saturday Review Syndicate)

“This book will be a resounding success for those who read it.” (Galveston News-Tribune)

Complex ideas simplified format.

Complex ideas presented in a simplified understandable format. Carl Jung is one of the most difficult scientists to understand and is famously unwilling to compromise on the complexity of his ideas. For these reasons and more he is difficult to understand.
The purpose if this book is to make Jung's ideas more approachable for the every day reader.

The book is divided into five parts:

Man and His Symbols is a classic work of Jungian psychology, and it is still widely read and studied today. The book is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the unconscious mind, the archetypes, and the role of symbols in human life.

Eye opening wisdom

This is Jung and his people from a humble angle. The effect of symbols is definitely well laid out.

Masterpiece of Psychiatry

This book (and it’s audiobook format) plumbs the depths of the Psyche. I’ve always loved abstract modern art but had trouble expressing it. The chapter on Art was illuminating as it brought to light things I couldn’t express.

A great listen for dreamers.

If you are a fan of Jung's work, this is a must read. the other authors included added a lot to the overall material. very well done!

Information but dry

Overall the book has a great premise, but it is monotonous to listen to after awhile as with the long chapters.

We are never alone And we never stop reaching for our truest self

It was further validated that we are never alone even if other existence are present. Our unconsciousness keeps us company. It is that guest that never wants to leave even if you ask them to leave they figure out a way to stay until you directly deal with that situation specifically.

I loved listening to the book and now I’m looking forward to physically reading it.

good start to Jung, not all written by Jung

Jung writes the first chapter, the rest are collaborators with Jung. I think it fulfills its purpose of introducing the reader to Jungian ideas behind his psychoanalysis. I'm not an analyst, but the impact these ideas have made on modern thought can't be overstated.

Worth listening to.... thrice perhaps....

Good, from start to finish. Very insightful and interesting read. Shines light on many different aspects of the mind and man's symbolism.

Wonderful book, wonderful narration

Long interested in Jung and his approach to psychology and therapy. This is a central introductory text. The narrator has clear and pleasant diction, obviously interested in and attentive to what he is reading and had a friendly tone of voice.