Where Does Your Sense of Self Come From? A Scientific Look | Anil Ananthaswamy | TED

Recent questions

• What is schizophrenia?

  Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder characterized by a range of symptoms that can affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Individuals with schizophrenia may experience hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, which can lead to significant disruptions in their daily lives. The condition often alters the perception of reality, making it difficult for those affected to maintain a coherent sense of self. This can result in a feeling of detachment from their own identity and actions, as they may struggle to differentiate between what is real and what is not. Understanding schizophrenia requires a compassionate approach, recognizing that those who live with it experience a unique reality that challenges conventional notions of identity and agency.

• How does Alzheimer's affect memory?

  Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects memory and cognitive function. It disrupts the brain's ability to form new memories, particularly short-term memories, which can lead to significant challenges in creating and maintaining personal narratives. As the disease advances, individuals may find it increasingly difficult to recall recent events or recognize familiar faces, resulting in fragmented stories and a loss of coherent identity. This memory impairment can create confusion and frustration, as individuals struggle to piece together their past experiences. The impact of Alzheimer's extends beyond memory loss; it can alter a person's sense of self and their relationships with others, emphasizing the importance of understanding and support for those affected by the disease.

• What is xenomelia?

  Xenomelia, also known as foreign limb syndrome, is a rare neurological condition in which individuals experience a disconnection between their sense of ownership and certain body parts. People with xenomelia may feel that one or more of their limbs do not belong to them, leading to a profound sense of alienation from their own body. This phenomenon illustrates the complex nature of bodily awareness and identity, as the brain constructs a sense of ownership over body parts that can sometimes fail. The experience of xenomelia challenges traditional views of the self, highlighting that our perception of our bodies is not always a given but rather a constructed experience that can be disrupted. Understanding xenomelia can foster empathy for those who experience it, as it reveals the intricate relationship between body, mind, and identity.

• What are out-of-body experiences?

  Out-of-body experiences (OBEs) are phenomena in which individuals feel as though they are perceiving the world from a location outside of their physical body. These experiences can occur in various contexts, including during moments of extreme stress, trauma, or even in certain meditative states. Research suggests that about 5% of the population may report having had an OBE at some point in their lives. OBEs challenge the conventional understanding of self and embodiment, as they can create a sense of detachment from one's physical form. This phenomenon raises intriguing questions about the nature of consciousness and identity, suggesting that our sense of being anchored in a body is not as fixed as it may seem. Exploring OBEs can deepen our understanding of the human experience and the fluidity of self-perception.

• How can we understand altered selves?

  Understanding altered selves involves recognizing that identity is not a fixed or permanent construct but rather a dynamic and often fragile narrative shaped by various experiences. Individuals who live with altered selves, such as those with schizophrenia or other dissociative conditions, may experience a profound shift in their sense of self, leading to feelings of disconnection from their thoughts, actions, or even their bodies. Engaging with the experiences of these individuals can challenge our assumptions about what it means to be "normal" and highlight the diversity of human experience. By acknowledging the constructed nature of identity, we can cultivate empathy and support for those navigating altered states of self, emphasizing that these experiences are valid and represent different ways of being rather than deficiencies.