TED Talks Daily Where does your sense of self come from? A scientific look | Anil Ananthaswamy
Apr 10, 2024
In a thought-provoking discussion, science writer Anil Ananthaswamy delves into the intricate nature of identity. He explores how our sense of self can be altered by conditions like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's, inviting listeners to reconsider what makes them who they are. Anil challenges conventional views on personal identity and highlights the empathy required for those experiencing shifts in self. His insights encourage a deeper understanding of the constructed nature of the self, ultimately aiming for personal growth and a more compassionate world.
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Altered Self
- Anil Ananthaswamy met someone who experienced schizophrenia and a shifting sense of self.
- Their body boundaries felt nebulous, and their psychological self felt porous.
Self is Slippery
- The self isn't as real as it seems, based on Ananthaswamy's research on altered selves.
- He spoke with various experts, including theologians, philosophers, and neuroscientists.
Narrative Self and Alzheimer's
- We define ourselves through stories, but Alzheimer's disease challenges this narrative self.
- Alzheimer's impacts memory, disrupting and eventually destroying these stories.