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Concentric and Diametric Structures in Yin/Yang and the Mandala Symbol

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  • Paul Downes

    (St. Patrick’s College, Dublin, Ireland)

Abstract

A silent discourse pervades psychology regarding how its theories are framed. This framing process needs to be brought more to the fore to challenge the traditional frames in Western psychology and to explore frames drawn more from Eastern traditions. Two primordial archetypal symbols, yin/yang and the mandala were partially developed by Jung in his attempt to employ Eastern frames for psychological understanding. Both symbols are highlighted as offering a prelinguistic discourse of implication requiring further examination. A relational discourse of assumed connection and assumed separation, expressed through concentric and diametric structures of relation underlying yin/yang and the mandala, are argued to be meaningful for psychology. Jung’s attempts to embed psychological theory with Eastern symbolic frames can be construed as the first wave of this process for psychology, and a new wave of interpretation of these primordial symbols offers fresh insights for a culture-inclusive and context-sensitive psychology.

Suggested Citation

  • Paul Downes, 2011. "Concentric and Diametric Structures in Yin/Yang and the Mandala Symbol," Psychology and Developing Societies, , vol. 23(1), pages 121-153, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:psydev:v:23:y:2011:i:1:p:121-153
    DOI: 10.1177/097133361002300105
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