Thread by @paraschopra

Our “self-identity” doesn’t exist.

(a mini thread)

1/ Let’s take bodies.

Maybe collection of “our” cells define who we’re?

Well, we contain more bacterial cells in our bodies than “our” own cells. And these bacterial cells are essential for survival.

2/ What about DNA? Surely, that describes us.

Mitochondria that lives within each of “our” cells was once another organism that ended up in symbiosis with “our” cells. It contains its own DNA.

Also, about 8% of our DNA came from viruses.

3/ Maybe our mind defines who we’re?

No, “we’re” a different person depending on circumstances and mood.

Remember “your” past self? How strongly do “you” identify with it?

4/ In the mind, “self” is just another construct like objects and other people that you see.

It’s possible to have dreams, meditation experiences or psychedelic states where this “self” construct doesn’t exist.

Who are “we” in those moments? Where are “we” in dreamless sleep?

5/ The fact that solitary confinement is the worst possible punishment in law shows that “self” is utterly embedded in the sea of others.

Given our utter dependence on others, it’s hard to say where “we” end and “they” begin.

6/ If “self” isn’t so neatly defined, why do we always believe it exists? That we are “this” and not “that”.

Well, it’s a lie that evolution stumbled upon which is useful for preservation and propagation of life.

That’s about it.

7/ But like all lies, taking it too seriously is detrimental.

Believing the truth - that self-identity is unstable - should make you more empathetic towards the world.

If your self boundaries don’t end neatly, there’s a strong reason to be less self-centred and more forgiving.

8/ That’s it.

Thinking deeply about who “I” am spins “my” head, so I’ll leave it here.

Hope you enjoyed the thread!