The Self Illusion

Synopsis

Most of us believe that we possess a self - an internal individual who resides inside our bodies, making decisions, authoring actions and possessing free will. The feeling that a single, unified, enduring self inhabits the body - the 'me' inside me - is compelling and inescapable. This is how we interact as a social animal and judge each other's actions and deeds. But that sovereignty of the self is increasingly under threat from science as our understanding of the brain advances. Rather than a single entity, the self is really a constellation of mechanisms and experiences that create the illusion of the internal you.

We only emerge as a product of those around us as part of the different storylines we inhabit from the cot to the grave. It is an ever changing character, created by the brain to provide a coherent interface between the multitude of internal processes and the external world demands that require different selves.

About the Publisher

Constable

Recently acquired by Little, Brown Book Group, Constable publishes a diverse range of bestselling fiction and non-fiction titles. Notable is Constable?s superb crime list, with MC Beaton at the forefront of the beloved ?cosy crime? genre with her bestselling Hamish McBeth and Agatha Raisin series. Constable also boasts a strong non-fiction section, publishing the likes of HRH Princess Michael of Kent and bestselling parody We?re Going on a Bar Hunt.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Illusion of Self

The book introduces the concept of the self as an illusion, arguing that there is no fixed, unchanging entity that we call "I." Instead, our sense of self is constantly evolving and is shaped by our experiences, relationships, and environment.

* Real example: Think of a time when you felt like a different person than you usually do. Perhaps you were in a new social situation or had a major life event. This experience illustrates how our self-concept is not fixed but rather can change based on circumstances.

Chapter 2: The Brain and the Self

This chapter explores the role of the brain in constructing our sense of self. It discusses how different parts of the brain are involved in processing information about ourselves and our surroundings and how this information is integrated into a coherent self-narrative.

* Real example: A person with a damaged prefrontal cortex may have difficulty recognizing themselves in a mirror or remembering their own name. This suggests that the prefrontal cortex is involved in processing information about our physical appearance and identity.

Chapter 3: The Social Self

The social self refers to the part of our self-concept that is shaped by our interactions with others. Through our relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, we develop a sense of who we are and what we are capable of.

* Real example: Consider a child who grows up in a supportive and nurturing environment. They may develop a positive sense of self and believe in their own abilities. Conversely, a child who grows up in a neglectful or abusive environment may develop a negative sense of self and doubt their own worth.

Chapter 4: The Narrative Self

The narrative self is the story we tell ourselves about our own lives. It is a collection of memories, experiences, and beliefs that we use to make sense of who we are and our place in the world.

* Real example: A person who believes they are a creative and talented artist may interpret their life experiences through a lens of artistic expression. They may see setbacks as opportunities for growth and inspiration.

Chapter 5: The Illusion of Free Will

The book argues that our sense of free will is an illusion. It suggests that our actions are largely determined by our genetics, environment, and experiences, and that we have very little control over who we are or what we do.

* Real example: A person who is raised in a violent neighborhood may be more likely to engage in aggressive behavior as an adult, even if they have a strong desire to be peaceful. This is because their environment and experiences have shaped their brain and their behavior.

Chapter 6: The End of the Self

The final chapter explores the implications of the self illusion for our understanding of human nature and morality. It argues that if there is no fixed self, then there is no ultimate foundation for our values or beliefs.

* Real example: Consider the case of a person who experiences a sudden loss of memory and forgets everything about their life. If there is no fixed self, then who is this person now? Do they have the same rights and responsibilities as they did before they lost their memory?