Episode 25: James Hollis

Written between 413-426 CE, 'The City of God' is a response to pagan claims that the sack of Rome by barbarians was a consequence of the abolition of pagan worship by Christian emperors. Augustine argues that Christianity saved the city from complete destruction and that Rome’s fall was due to internal moral decay. The book divides humanity into two metaphorical cities: the City of God, characterized by devotion to God, and the City of Man, characterized by self-love. It also outlines Augustine’s theological interpretation of human history, from the Creation to the Second Coming of Christ, and critiques paganism and pagan philosophy while presenting the true history of the City of God.

This book examines the psychodynamics of relationships through a Jungian lens, focusing on the concept of the 'Magical Other' and the projections we impose on our partners. It is not a practical guide to fixing relationships but rather a call for greater personal responsibility and individual growth. Hollis explores how our childhood experiences and unconscious projections shape our relationships and argues that true intimacy can only be achieved by confronting and integrating our own psyche. The book emphasizes the importance of individuation and conscious dialogue in relationships.