Robert Moore

Distinguished Service Professor of Psychology, Psychoanalysis and Spirituality

M. Th., Southern Methodist University, 1967; M. Th., Duke University, 1968; M.A., Ph.D., University of Chicago, 1970, 1975.

Author (Recent Publications):  The Archetype of Initiation: Sacred Space, Ritual Process, and Personal Transformation (Xlibris, 2001); Facing the Dragon: Confronting Personal and Spiritual Grandiosity (Chiron, 2003).

Dr. Moore is a senior professor in the Center for Theology, Ethics, and the Human Sciences, an interdisciplinary institute for advanced study in the philosophical, theological, and ethical implications of the various human sciences.  He is also a Diplomate of the Alfred Adler Institute of Chicago, since 1983; and an Analyst at the C. G. Jung Institute of Chicago, since 1987.

“In my work as a Jungian psychoanalyst and spiritual theologian, my recent research has focused on the powerful, grandiose ‘God energies’ that burn fiercely in the heart of every human being.  Faced consciously in faith and with authentic respect, these energies reflect in us the numinous, creative and transformative power of the Divine Presence. But if the human ego engages in a pretentious ‘unknowing’ of the reality and significance of this Presence, existential idolatry and malignant narcissism result.  With this existential denial of the Divine Presence, a demonic alchemy occurs in which the sacred energies of the soul are ‘hijacked’ and twisted into destructive powers that have a ‘hideous strength.’  This power of aggressive non-being manifests itself in addictions, ritual violence and war, political oppression, racism, sexism, classism, homophobia, and the ecological destruction of our planet.  It is my hope to aid my students in joining the ranks of those spiritual leaders who do not retreat into despair in the face of radical evil, but who have the faith, courage, and skills to confront it effectively.”

Sample Courses:

Psychopathology in Theological Perspective
Jungian Psychology and Contemporary Spirituality
Victor Turner on Ritual Process
Paul Tillich on Theology, Ethics and Human Sciences