Alan Watts - Myth of Myself Full Lecture Part 1 - Alan Watts Organization Official
Official Alan Watts Org・2 minutes read
The concept of "I" and self-awareness is a profound mystery that varies among cultures, with Western civilization perceiving it as residing within a physical body, while others locate it in different body parts. The Western notion of self involves a metaphorical control room in the head, influencing beliefs about the universe and the existence of intelligence beyond human beings.
Insights
- Different cultures perceive the concept of "self" in varied ways, locating it in different body parts like the head, solar plexus, or heart-mind, showcasing the diversity of human understanding and interpretation of individual identity.
- The belief in the universe as an artifact created by a divine being contrasts with the idea of a mechanical universe, where intelligence and emotions are limited to humans, revealing the profound impact of cultural and philosophical perspectives on how we perceive ourselves and the world around us.
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Recent questions
What is the concept of "I"?
The concept of "I" is the elusive understanding of oneself, akin to not being able to directly see one's own eyes or taste one's own tongue.
How does Western civilization perceive the self?
Western civilization generally perceives the self as a center of awareness and action residing within a physical body.
What is the myth of a mechanical universe?
The myth of a mechanical universe suggests that intelligence and emotions are limited to human beings.
How does the concept of evolution relate to human existence?
The concept of evolution implies that humans, like apples on a tree, grow out of and are interconnected with the world around them.
How do different cultures perceive consciousness in non-living entities?
Different cultures have varying perspectives on consciousness in non-living entities, with some viewing rocks as possessing a rudimentary form of consciousness.
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