A Psychology of Place (Cornwall)

Abstract

This article asks if there is a psychology or a spirit of place and, if so, how we might begin to form a contemporary understanding of a concept that has been accepted in earlier times and in cultures across the world. It cites an example of how elements of vocabulary and certain psychological issues can survive in an institutional environment despite a complete change of personnel. With specific reference to the English county of Cornwall it looks at how some typical psychological issues may arise in connection with the history, geography, and mythology of this particular place. It then cites two examples of symbolic and meaningful synchronicities that have occurred in connection with some of Cornwall’s ancient monuments. Itconcludes that the very question of examining our relationship to place may overlook the fact that the questioners are themselves a part of the environment that they are questioning.