Synchronicity: A Glimpse of the Higher Power?

Abstract

Carl Jung’s theory of synchronicity is defined by Jung as the “occurrence of a certain psychic state with one or more external events which appear as meaningful parallels to the momentary subjective state.” Fundamental to this proposal, developed with physicist Wolfgang Pauli, is the profound assertion that the acausal nature of synchronicity is “equal in rank to causality as a principle of explanation.” The epistemology of this concept is explored via the exposition of novel ideas and literature review. The supportive and transformative healing value of discovering and sharing a synchronicity experience is revealed in diverse psychotherapeutic modalities ranging from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) to analytical psychology, and via indigenous-shamanic healing practices. Attention is also devoted to reporting the positive, possibly curative nature and attributes of synchronicities that enhance the spiritual aspect of recovery from addictive process disorders and other maladies of postmodern life.