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The "Self" Is An Illusion | Thomas Metzinger | Escaped Sapiens #72
The Escaped Sapiens Podcast
The Development of Self and Social Cognition in Children
Infants and children construct a self-model through their physical interactions, beginning with random arm movements that help them calibrate their body and understand personal boundaries. Over time, they become aware of their internal states, such as hunger, realizing these feelings are linked to their bodily experience. This development is essential for navigating social environments, as children learn to identify other agents, discerning who is kind and who may pose threats. This recognition fosters the growth of what is known as theory of mind—the ability to attribute thoughts, desires, and beliefs to others, recognizing their perspectives differ from one's own. Such cognitive development enhances social dynamics, introducing concepts like deception and the complexity of interpersonal relationships. Understanding oneself and others becomes crucial, marking a significant evolutionary strategy for complex social organisms as children refine their models of self and the minds of those around them.
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