ABSTRACT
In this section the following key views on the authenticity of self for Jung and Kierkegaard are explored: 1. Assumed inauthentic identity possible; 2. Self-identity constructed by others; for instance identity may be modelled on how we are expected to act by others; 3. That we have the potential to actively change our identity to become more authentic. This chapter discerns in Kierkegaard’s philosophy the familiar Jungian themes of psychic harmony, one-sidedness and over-identification. Behind both Kierkegaard’s and Jung’s calls for us to be both creator and created is the rationale that in becoming oneself one must overcome the propensity to self-deceive. It is a process that requires the shedding of a false sense of self through facing one’s self-deceptions and embracing the unfamiliar and unwelcome aspects of the self. In Jungian terms authenticity comes when one embraces his or her shadow self (this dark stranger within). Whilst Kierkegaard does not speak of shadow projection as such, he does astutely recognise that within every individual there is a shadowy element that prevents us from revealing aspects of ourselves. This is explored in this chapter alongside the understanding that we so often choose to shrink from self-revelation and thereby evade authenticity.
