Some Thoughts on Technology as Shadow by Dr. Doug Tyler

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“Always when science tries to describe a “simple” life process, the matter becomes complicated and difficult.” —C.G. Jung

Technologies have become “necessary” tools for ego development (for individuals, companies, organizations, or institutions) by mirroring needs and desires in order to feel known and remembered. And very few of us reside outside the realm of this powerful influence. So, what are we to make of this process by which the ego and its attendant aspirations become drawn into such a powerful archetypal force? We continuously hear about or experience the benefits and the ease of locating information and communicating with others. What is missing, however, is a dialogue about technology as shadow.

There is no doubt our lives are enhanced by powerful emerging technologies and that these developments reflect a level of influence consistent with archetypal meaning. Unless we become conscious of the shadow working within the uses of our technological wonders, we will grow increasingly estranged in our relationships with our selves, each other, and the psyche. A preoccupation with technology and its effects on consciousness will result in an unconscious undertow of sorts—dragging us out to sea, into a reckoning with the psyche’s intentions.

Dr. Tyler practices as a Jungian Analyst in Knoxville, TN. He obtained his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Tennessee and his diploma in Analytical Psychology from the Inter-Regional Society of Jungian Analysts (IRSJA). He is a member of the IRSJA and is currently a training analyst with the Inter-Regional Memphis-Atlanta Seminar. Dr. Tyler has been a practicing psychologist for 25 years in Knoxville and lectures on various Jungian topics, including: Typology, the Holy Grail, the Hero archetype, the intersection of psychology and theology, and Merlin as multifaceted archetypal images.