What characterizes the collective unconscious, according to Jung?

The concept of the collective unconscious, as proposed by Carl Jung, refers to a part of the unconscious mind that is not shaped by personal experiences but is instead composed of memories, ideas, and archetypes shared by all human beings across cultures and times. This intrinsic layer of the psyche contains universal symbols and themes that reflect the shared experiences of humanity, such as myths, dreams, and common images, which Jung termed archetypes.

This idea contrasts with personal experiences, which are specific to individuals and shaped by their unique life histories. The collective unconscious is about inherited knowledge and instinctual patterns that are inherent to human nature, allowing for a collective psychic heritage. Therefore, the understanding of the collective unconscious as inherited material that transcends individual experience is foundational to Jung’s theories in analytical psychology.