Do You Know Who Deep Down You Really Are

When all your thoughts disappear who are you?

Photo by abhijeet gourav on Unsplash

So, what is this self?

Is it your name? Your body? Something inside your brain?

How do you define self? Are your thoughts your self?

And when all the thoughts disappear, who are you?

The Intricacies of Defining the Self

Many philosophers have pondered the question of the self for centuries. Some believe that the self is simply an illusion, while others argue it is the core of our existence.

Different theories on the nature of the self include:

1. Dualism: This theory proposes that the self or soul is a distinct, non-physical entity that exists separately from the body.
2. Materialism: Materialists believe that the self is entirely physical and that mental states are reducible to brain states.
3. Functionalism: This theory holds that the self is a functional concept and that mental states are defined by their role or function in the cognitive system.
4. Narrative theory: According to this view, the self is a product of the stories we tell ourselves about our experiences and identity.
5. Ecological theory: This theory suggests that the self is not a fixed entity but is instead a dynamic and adaptive process that emerges from our interactions with the environment.
6. Neuroscience Approach — argues that the self is a product of brain activity and structures.
7. Eastern Philosophies — often believe that the self is merely an illusion or temporary state and that the true nature of existence lies in transcending the individual self to become one with the universe or a higher reality.

So,let’s explore each of these theories in more detail:

Dualism: A Theoretical Analysis

Dualism, often associated with the philosopher René Descartes, explores the idea that the mind and body are distinct entities. It posits that the self, or our consciousness, persists independently of the physical body.

Some dualists argue that though the mind and body interact with one another, they ultimately retain their separate nature.

This theory has faced criticism, especially with advances in neuroscience where the connection between mental states and brain activity is well-documented.

Materialism: The Search for a Physical Explanation

Materialism relies heavily on empirical evidence and the scientific method. It rejects the notion of a non-physical “soul” or “mind” separate from the body.

Instead, materialists argue that mental states can be explained by physical processes occurring in the brain. As a result, the self is viewed as a byproduct of neural activity, and our consciousness is ultimately reducible to brain states.

However, critics argue that materialism hasn’t yet fully explained the intricacies of subjective experience or how consciousness arises from neural activity.

Functionalism: A Systems Perspective on the Self

Functionalism puts the focus on understanding mental states based on their function within the cognitive system. According to this view, mental states are not determined only by their underlying physical properties but also by their roles in various cognitive processes.

Functionalism has gained support for offering a way to understand consciousness while remaining compatible with both materialist and dualist views.

However, some critics argue that the functionalist approach has difficulties explaining how subjective experience arises from cognitive processes, and that it doesn’t necessarily provide a comprehensive understanding of the self.

Narrative Theory: Defining the Self Through Stories

Narrative theory puts forth the idea that the self is created through the stories we tell about ourselves and our experiences. Our life narratives reflect our values, beliefs, and identity, constantly evolving as we interpret and make sense of our experiences.

Supporters of this theory argue that it accounts for both the unity and the ever-changing nature of our sense of self.

However, critics argue that narratives can be biased, unreliable, or even constructed falsely, raising concerns about the objective validity of the self as defined by personal narratives.

Ecological Theory: An Adaptive and Dynamic Self

Ecological theory posits that the self is a dynamic and adaptive process that constantly changes and evolves through our interactions with our environment. This perspective suggests that our sense of self is fluid and influenced by the various contexts we find ourselves in, as well as our experiences, challenges, and successes.

By adapting to changing circumstances and environments, we continually reshape our self-concept.

Supporters of this theory argue that it offers a more realistic and flexible understanding of the self as a changing and constantly developing entity.

However, critics contend that the ecological approach may struggle to explain the core features of personal identity that remain stable despite environmental changes and fluctuations.

Neuroscience Approach: Identity Rooted in Brain Structures and Functions

The neuroscience approach to understanding the self argues that our identity is rooted in brain structures and functions. According to this view, the self emerges from neural activity within areas of the brain responsible for our thoughts, memories, emotions, and desires.

Numerous neuroscientific studies have shown correlations between specific areas of the brain and aspects of our self-concept or identity, such as self-recognition, empathy, and self-reference.

Supporters of the neuroscience approach believe that it has the potential to provide a comprehensive and objective understanding of the self by using cutting-edge research and methods.

However, critics argue that the complexity and interconnected nature of the brain make it difficult to reduce the self merely to specific brain activities. They also contend that the neuroscience approach might not capture the broader social, cultural, and experiential influences on the self.

Eastern Philosophy: Illusory Self

Eastern Philosophy offers a unique perspective on the concept of self, which differs from the Western view of individualism. Here is an overview of the nature of self in some of the prominent Eastern philosophies:

Hinduism

• Atman: In Hindu philosophy, the self is referred to as the “atman” which is the eternal, all-pervasive inner consciousness or soul. The atman is unchanging, limitless, and transcends physical and mental existence.
• Brahman: Hinduism asserts the oneness of self (atman) with the ultimate reality, “Brahman,” stating that everyone is part of the same cosmic existence.
• Reincarnation: Hindu belief also includes the concept of rebirth or reincarnation, where the atman undergoes a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth until it attains moksha or liberation from the cycle. This liberation is achieved when the individual soul realizes its oneness with Brahman and lets go of attachment to the physical world and ego.

Buddhism

• Anatta (No-Self): The Buddha rejected the Hindu concept of an eternal, unchanging self (atman) and instead proposed the concept of “anatta,” which means no-self or selflessness. According to Buddhism, the individual self or ego is an illusion created by a series of ever-changing mental and physical processes called the “Five Aggregates” (form, sensation, perception, mental formations, and consciousness).
• Dependent Origination: Buddhism emphasizes the concept of “dependent origination,” which states that all phenomena, includingthe self, arise from a complex web of interconnected causes and conditions. Nothing exists independently or in isolation.
• Nirvana: The ultimate goal of Buddhist practice is to achieve Nirvana, a state of liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). By realizing the true nature of the self as an illusion and breaking the chain of dependent origination, one can attain a state of absolute tranquility and freedom from suffering.

Taoism

• Tao (The Way): In Taoism, the self is understood as being in harmony with the Tao, the natural order of the universe. By living in accordance with the Tao, individuals can achieve balance and harmony within themselves and with the world around them.
• Wu Wei (Non-action): A key principle in Taoist philosophy is “wu wei,” meaning non-action or effortless action. This concept encourages individuals to let go of their ego and desires and to act spontaneously and naturally, allowing the self to align with the flow of the Tao.
• Yin and Yang: Taoism also emphasizes the importance of balance, as represented by the concepts of Yin (passive, receptive, and dark) and Yang (active, dominating, and light). By balancing these opposing forces within oneself, a person can achieve a state of inner harmony and completeness.

Conclusion

Understanding the concept of the self is a complex and intriguing endeavor. Various theories offer different perspectives on what constitutes the self, and no single explanation is universally accepted.

By exploring these varying ideas, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of the self and continue our journey towards self-discovery and self-improvement.

So, the next time you find yourself pondering the question, “Who am I?” remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

Embrace the ongoing quest to understand and develop your self, and be open to the idea that this understanding may evolve over time.

Disclaimer: Article created with AI assistance