The Escaped Sapiens Podcast
The "Self" Is An Illusion | Thomas Metzinger | Escaped Sapiens #72
Aug 26, 2024
In this conversation, Professor Thomas Metzinger, a pioneer in consciousness studies, challenges the notion of the 'self' as an illusion crafted by our brains for survival. He reveals how personal identity evolves, influenced by experience and culture, and questions the impact of technology on self-perception. Fascinatingly, he discusses the rubber hand experiment, illustrating how perception can be altered. Additionally, Metzinger delves into the ethical implications of consciousness, especially concerning AI and suffering, prompting listeners to reconsider what it means to truly 'be'.
01:33:35
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Quick takeaways
- Professor Thomas Metzinger argues that the self is a useful fiction created by the brain to aid in survival.
- The structure of the self model comprises physical, emotional, and cognitive elements, shaping our complex human experiences.
Deep dives
The Nature of Self as a Fiction
The concept of self is described as a useful fiction rather than a concrete existence. Professor Thomas Metzinger argues that our perception of self is analogous to the phenomenon of color, which, while not physically real, provides a functional advantage for survival. This notion implies that our consciousness has evolved to create representations that aid in navigating complex environments, rather than reflecting an objective reality. The brain's ability to color experiences helps in survival by offering important contrast, paralleling how the self model aids in emotional and social interactions.
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