Understanding the Self: A Journey Through Philosophies

Reflecting on the concept of the self, one cannot help but be captivated by the profound insights from various philosophical traditions. From the timeless wisdom of Advaita Vedanta to the modern Objectivist philosophy, these belief systems have significantly shaped my view of the self and its significance in our lives. Each philosophy presents a unique lens through which to examine our existence and understanding of our essence.

Advaita Vedanta: The Realization Beyond Philosophies

Before encountering philosophical literature, my understanding of the self was already rooted in an unshakable belief that I am beyond birth and death. This fundamental truth aligns perfectly with the teachings of Advaita Vedanta, a school of thought that emphasizes the oneness of the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). For me, the self is not a construct of philosophy or a creation of human intellect; it is the unalterable truth that transcends words and concepts.

Advaita Vedanta teaches that the self is eternal and indivisible. The realization of this truth is not an intellectual exercise but a deeply personal and universal experience that can be attained through introspection and divine revelation. The truth of the self is not something to be explained; it is to be experienced. Language and philosophy are mere tools to guide us toward this realization, but the core of our existence is beyond conceptualization.

Christian Existentialism: A Philosophical Alignment

Even before delving into the various philosophical schools, I had a sense of what Christian existentialism means. This belief system that I have incorporated into my worldview is deeply intertwined with the Platonic idea of the soul as a component separate from our physical body. This soul is eternal and carries the essence of our identity beyond the physical realm.

According to Christian existentialism, the soul is not limited to the physical world and continues its journey in the afterlife, where it finds ultimate peace and fulfillment. This philosophical framework resonates with my belief that when I die, my soul will leave this plane and ascend into the realm of heaven. This belief provides a comforting and spiritual foundation that complements my understanding of the self.

The Objectivist Philosophy: A Path to Objectivity and Compassion

The Objectivist philosophy offers a balanced approach to understanding the self and the world around us. It encourages a high degree of objectivity in analyzing the world and interpersonal relationships while maintaining a compassionate and humane perspective. This philosophy is founded on the belief that the world is in a constant state of change and that our understanding of the self and others should be adaptable to these changes.

The Objectivist philosophy teaches that the self is multifaceted, with different personas or 'selves' emerging in various social situations. These selves are automatic responses triggered by specific contexts, and there is often poor awareness of their existence. Through impartial observation, one can gain a deeper understanding of these selves and the essence of their being.

Impartial Self-Examination and Observational Techniques

The most effective method of self-examination is through impartial observation, ideally while in action. This involves observing the different aspects of our selves without becoming entangled in our immediate reactions or the scripts that drive our behavior. By freeing our attention from the self of the moment, we can truly see the multiplicity of our selves and understand the nuances of our existence.

A key technique in this process is to focus on our bodily awareness and physical consciousness. Our attention is often generated by the body and brainstem, which can become a reflexive response to social situations. By observing our actions with free attention, we can become aware of the triggers that activate our different selves. This awareness can lead to a more conscious and empathetic approach to our interactions and, ultimately, to a deeper self-understanding.

Practicing this technique at every opportunity can reveal more about oneself than one might expect. For example, when waiting in line or at a bus stop, one can use this moment to free their attention from thoughts and distractions. By focusing on the overall sensation of the physical body, one can experience a renewed sense of vitality. As attention shifts back to the body, the upcoming self and its triggers can be observed. This practice helps in maintaining a constant state of awareness and can significantly impact our understanding of the self.

In conclusion, the exploration of various philosophies of the self has enriched my understanding of my own existence. Through the wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, Christian existentialism, and Objectivism, I have gained deeper insights into the nature of the self and the ways in which these belief systems can guide our self-understanding. By embracing these philosophies and practicing observational techniques, we can gain a more profound and compassionate understanding of our selves and the world around us.