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. 2017 Aug 31;13(3):472-490.
doi: 10.5964/ejop.v13i3.1184. eCollection 2017 Aug.

A Psychobiographical Study of Intuition in a Writer's Life: Paulo Coelho Revisited

Claude-Hélène Mayer  1   2 , David Maree  2
Affiliations

A Psychobiographical Study of Intuition in a Writer's Life: Paulo Coelho Revisited

Claude-Hélène Mayer et al. Eur J Psychol. .

Abstract

Intuition is defined as a form of knowledge which materialises as awareness of thoughts, feelings and physical sensations. It is a key to a deeper understanding and meaningfulness. Intuition, used as a psychological function, supports the transmission and integration of perceptions from unconscious and conscious realms. This study uses a psychobiographical single case study approach to explore intuition across the life span of Paulo Coelho. Methodologically, the study is based on a single case study, using the methodological frame of Dilthey's modern hermeneutics. The author, Paulo Coelho, was chosen as a subject of research, based on the content analysis of first- and third-person perspective documents. Findings show that Paulo Coelho, as one of the most famous and most read contemporary authors in the world, uses his intuitions as a deeper guidance in life, for decision-making and self-development. Intuitive decision-making is described throughout his life and by referring to selected creative works.

Keywords: Paulo Coelho; intuition; life study; psychobiography; rationality; writer.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Intuition and rationality across the life span.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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