C.G. Jung, in "The Undiscovered Self," explores the concept of the human psyche's shadow, which represents the hidden or repressed aspects of oneself. He argues that individuals usually remain unaware of their own darker traits, often projecting these qualities onto others, believing these attributes reside outside themselves. This tendency reveals a commonality between the neurotic and the average person, indicating that both fail to acknowledge their internal struggles.

Jung emphasizes that this projection creates a disconnect between self-awareness and the understanding of others. By blaming others for undesirable traits, individuals avoid confronting their own issues. Thus, he calls for a deeper introspection to recognize and integrate these shadow aspects, suggesting that self-awareness is crucial for personal growth and healing. Ultimately, he advocates for the importance of recognizing one's shadow to foster a more authentic connection with oneself and society.