Wisdom for psychiatrists: The wisdom of non-anger

Abstract

Magical thinking arises most clearly in childhood, fostered by fairy tales, legends and myths. The magical mind is omnipotent and omniscient, all-powerful and all-knowing. It knows no boundaries of time or space. When challenged by reason, it sees itself beyond logic. Above all, It cannot admit of its own extinction. Even in adult life people identify themselves with heroines and heroes, with those of flawless beauty and with the powerful: not just some people, all people. This is the magical mind. In fiction, and so-called reoltty-that is, non-fiction. But what is non-fiction? Do we not influence the world and make it what it Is with our imagination? Magical thinking is best acknowledged. Attempts to ignore it or suppress it will fall, and it may then be destructive. Magical thinking and logical, rational thinking are best integrated. Reasoning, It is said, may be convergent or divergent; but it may also be systematic, thorough, comprehensive. This is best. When systematic thinking and magical thinking are integrated, creative, Intuitive thought patterns emerge. In creative thinking, the magical mind is sometimes in control and sometimes subordinate to reason; neither predominates absolutely. Both are of value. They integrate spontaneously in the night; in sleep and in dreams. The products of this integration, this creativity, are most accessible when conceptual thought is set aside; in contemplation, prayer, worship, and at best in regular, disciplined meditation. How else could I write such a piece?