What is the central archetype that unites all parts of the psyche?

The central archetype that unites all parts of the psyche is known as the Self. In Jungian psychology, the Self represents the totality of the psyche, encompassing both the conscious mind and the unconscious. It serves as the central point around which an individual's personality organizes. The Self symbolizes the process of individuation, where a person integrates various aspects of their personality to achieve wholeness and balance.

The concept of the Self is vital, as it encompasses the ego (the conscious aspect), the personal unconscious, and the collective unconscious, where archetypes reside. This integration leads to personal growth and development, allowing individuals to understand and reconcile different parts of themselves.

Other terms, such as the ego, id, and superego, refer to different elements of personality or psychic structures but do not encapsulate the totality of the psyche. The ego primarily represents the conscious self, the id symbolizes primal desires and instincts, and the superego embodies moral standards and societal norms. None of these concepts reflects the holistic integration and unity provided by the archetype of the Self.