We can and do think consciously
From Triadic Philosophy available exclusively on Kindle SECOND EDITION.
The notion that we are automatons with no capacity to determine our destiny on the basis of conscious choices is a convenient lie.
We can and do think consciously.
We make history that way.
We choose right and move forward. We choose wrong and we regress.
Generally our movement, like that of the cosmos, is forward. Very slowly. We live. We learn.
Generally we evolve away from what harms and move in the direction of what preserves and enhances life. When things go wrong, we are grateful to be able to choose alternatives. We may choose carefully or impulsively, but in both cases it is consciousness that does the lifting.
What then is a mindless or selfish decision?
Such decisions are no less conscious than ones that are critical and self-respecting. The difference lies in the ethics or direction of choice, in the values we bring into play.
If we are mindless, it is because we have chosen to be mindless. If we are selfish, it is because we have consciously determined to be selfish.
Consciousness is related to conscience.
We feel guilt when we do wrong, when we create harm.
When our conscience is hurting, we are likely choosing actions that harm ourselves, others, or both.
Conscience cannot be obliterated.
Much of our involvement with drugs and alcohol is a conscious effort to obliterate freedom and disable consciousness. But it doesn’t work.
We can dull consciousness enough to give us an excuse for behavior we might otherwise see as ugly or mean-spirited. But back in reality we know what is true.
