ABSTRACT
Theoretical dialogues exist, of course, on a large scale, and the integration, or not, of theories is crucial to Jungian analytic practice. This chapter aims to theorize in a general way about some of the minutiae and subtleties involved. At the same time, it speculates on some of the psychology of the process: the intrapersonal and interpersonal eros involved, the intimate bond analysts bring to their theories, and the challenges inherent in integrating new perspectives with old ones. The chapter also presents a loose collection of reflections on some of the overall as well as underlying processes of integrating theories. The process of integrating theories involves two levels, or two components, of synthesis that are intimately tied and in fact overlapping. The first is emotional. The second process element involves negotiating the integration in a non-emotional way. A successful integration, like a successful personal integration in life or analysis, is an organic, slow-growth process.
