What is the concept of "collective unconscious" in Jungian theory?

The concept of "collective unconscious" in Jungian theory refers to a shared part of the unconscious mind that transcends individual experiences. This collective aspect contains universal memories, symbols, and ideas, which Jung believed are inherited and common across all human beings. Unlike the personal unconscious that comprises individual memories and experiences, the collective unconscious encompasses archetypal images and themes that are embedded in all societies, such as myths, dreams, and cultural motifs.

This concept is foundational in understanding how individuals can connect with a collective human experience through common symbols and narratives that resonate across different cultures and eras. For example, the archetype of the hero or the mother figure appears in various forms in the myths and stories of many cultures, illustrating how the collective unconscious informs and shapes individual behavior and thought patterns.

By recognizing the importance of the collective unconscious, Jungian theory provides insights into the ways in which our psychological experiences are not merely personal but are influenced by a broader, shared psychological heritage.