In a previous post, I mapped Jungian archetypes to the political compass. This post expands on that theme. The primary aim—if you consider the archetypes as a valid representation of the ethos of each quadrant—is to illustrate that each quadrant possesses both admirable qualities and a shadow side. In the quadrants below I have simplified the roles described in the earlier post.
The following descriptions were crafted by a financial coach who uses these archetypes as a therapeutic tool, hence the inclusion of attributes related to money management. This model offers a theoretical framework about tendencies that often coalesce, or “hang together.” While you may easily find flaws and dismiss them, it can also offer insights or serve as a reminder. For instance, a non-confrontational and patient temperament can make for more pleasant company, but the unresolved difficulties may eventually lead to resentment and passive-aggressive responses. The model’s utility is evidenced by its longevity, but debating its accuracy is less productive.
The coach was happy with how I organized her descriptions of the archetypes. I separated them into quadrants to illustrate both the “hero aspect” and “shadow side” of each quadrants’ general characteristics.
Thanks for reading. Here’s a related post that’s similar but research-based.
Repeat of Quadrant Content for First Image
This section repeats the writing in the quadrants, for any who have difficulty reading in that format. Groups are presented in order of political party size.
Democrat
Nurturer & distributor (government)
Republican
Protector & provider (business)
Libertarian
Truth-teller & dissident (intelligencia)
Green Party
Inspirer & moralizer (idealist)
Repeat of Quadrant Content for Second Image
Auth-left quadrant
the innocent (representing the hero of auth-left quadrant)
• happy go lucky (externally)
• fearful or anxious (internally)
• indecisive
• security seeking
• repressive of feelings and beliefs
• non-confrontational
• financially dependent
the martyr (representing the shadow of auth-left quadrant)
• controlling
• manipulative
• caretakers
• self-sacrificing
• disappointed
• critical and judgmental
• perfectionist
• resentful
• passive aggressive
• long-suffering
• compassionate
• wise
• secretive
Auth-right quadrant
the magician (representing the hero of auth-right quadrant)
• spiritual
• wise
• vibrant
• trusting
• generous
• loving
• powerful
• optimistic
• fluid
• confident
• compassionate
• detached
• open to flow
• financially balanced
the tyrant (representing the shadow of auth-right quadrant)
• controlling
• manipulative
• rigid
• fearful
• oppressive
• prone to rage or violence
• highly critical
• judgmental
• aggressive
• unforgiving
• secretive
• highly materialistic
Lib-right quadrant
the warrior (representing the hero of lib-right quadrant)
• powerful
• driven
• loyal
• disciplined
• goal oriented
• confident
• calculating
• rescuers
• wise, discerning
• generous
• competitive
• financially successful
the fool (representing the shadow of lib-right quadrant)
• restless
• irresponsible
• impetuous
• optimistic
• happy go lucky
• adventurous
• lives for today
• overly generous
• undisciplined financially
Lib-left quadrant
the creator artist (representing the hero of lib-left quadrant)
• highly artistic &/or spiritual
• passive
• internally motivated
• detached
• often loners
• seekers of truth
• non materialistic
the martyr (representing the shadow of lib-left quadrant)
• blames others
• emotional
• melancholy or
• lives in the past
• seeks to be rescued
• feels powerless
• resentful angry
• unforgiving
• self fulfilling prophecy
• addictive
• financially irresponsible