Introduction

We met with social psychologist and business school professor Brian Lowery to explore the foundations of the self - nothing short of what makes us who we are. Lowery argues that our social communities construct us, but that there isn't a single "genuine self." Rather, we are the composite of all the masks we wear. This paradox reveals a deep tension between the structure we seek because we like to think the world is stable and coherent, and the complete freedom of becoming our more expansive selves through broader relationships. Lowery challenges Maslow to say that meaning is a fundamental human need as critical as basic safety. We want to be seen, and we want to have what is reflected back by others match how we see ourselves. When we talk about the self, are we talking about the physical self of cells, hormones and DNA, or are we actually talking about the meaning attached to those things? If the latter, those exist in our social relationships. Prepare to question your assumptions. Join us.