Dreaming as world view
The concept of ‘worldview’ has been relatively neglected in modern psychiatric literature, especially in contributions from the English-speaking world. Yet it clearly has significance for well-being and, arguably, has some degree of malleability for each individual. In this paper the concept is considered in relation to individual psychotherapy and with particular reference to the Australian Indigenous Tradition, known in English as ‘The Dreaming’. A selected literature is reviewed including the contributions of James, Jaspers, Jung and Meares. The Dreaming is seen as having a basis in intersubjectivity and a living relationship to the environment. The possibility of sharing of knowledge drawn from different cultural traditions is considered as part of a potentially adaptive response to a complex global community. Conflict in relation to worldview is a source of tension and distress for individuals and communities. Therapeutic implications are considered. It is considered that for change to be therapeutic there is a requirement not only for mutual understanding and respect but also for a reciprocal openness to change.
