The Gray Area with Sean Illing Your identity is a story you tell yourself
11 snips
Nov 17, 2022 Gregory Berns, a neuroscientist and author, challenges the notion of a unified self. He suggests our identities are fluid stories, shaped by experiences and perceptions over time. The discussion dives into how psychedelics can shift self-perception and challenge habitual thinking, impacting our narrative. Berns also explores the brain's complexities and how our identity is influenced by social contexts and technology. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to embrace the evolving nature of their selves for deeper understanding.
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Self as Story
- Our sense of self is a story we constantly tell ourselves.
- This self-narrative can be changed, offering potential for reinvention.
Ship of Theseus Analogy
- The Ship of Theseus paradox highlights how identity persists despite change.
- A 'story' creates unity, whether for a ship or a person.
Teenage Realization
- Gregory Berns recalls questioning his sense of self as a teenager.
- He realized his body's molecules were constantly changing, challenging his identity.
