(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) The Self in Western Philosophy
Western philosophy has long grappled with the nature of the self, particularly its relationship to identity, consciousness, and purpose. From ancient to modern thinkers, central questions revolve around whether the self is a distinct, stable entity or a fluid, ever-evolving process. Western thought often explores how the self interacts with the external world, others, and the divine.
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Freud and Jung: The Psychological Self
Sigmund Freud conceptualized the self as a dynamic interplay of unconscious drives, dividing it into the id (instinctual desires), the ego (rational self), and the superego (moral conscience). He viewed the self as a battleground where these forces compete for dominance, shaping behavior and identity.
Carl Jung expanded Freud's ideas, emphasizing the process of individuation-the integration of conscious and unconscious aspects of the self. For Jung, self-realization involved harmonizing the psyche's different facets, such as the persona (social mask) and the shadow (hidden or repressed qualities). His archetypal framework underscored the multifaceted nature of the self, positioning it as both deeply personal and universally connected.
Iqbal's Vision of Selfhood: Khudi
In Islamic philosophy, the poet-philosopher Allama Iqbal introduced a profound conception of selfhood, articulated as Khudi. The term derives from the Urdu word khud, meaning“by oneself.” Iqbal's philosophy is deeply rooted in the Quranic verse:
“And [Allah] breathed into him of His Spirit” (Quran 15:29).
He believed that humans are endowed with divine essence-a creative power that enables them to shape their destiny (Qadr-e-duniya).
Iqbal's Khudi transcends mere self-awareness, representing the capacity for creation, empowerment, and transformation. For him, Khudi was not a psychological construct but a divine spark-a window to the metaphysical within the physical. It reflects human dignity and purpose, emphasizing the journey of self-mastery and transcendence.
In his poetic masterpiece Asrar-e-Khudi (Secrets of the Self), Iqbal highlighted self-awareness as the foundation of progress:
“Know thyself, for self-knowledge leads to the knowledge of God.”
He advocated for discipline, willpower, and active engagement with life, rejecting passivity and fatalism. According to Iqbal, a strong Khudi is essential for overcoming weakness and directing one's destiny:
“This world is no place for the weak. Only those with a strong Khudi can carve their path.”
Iqbal's ultimate vision for the self involves self-transcendence, aligning human will with divine will. He drew on mystical concepts like fana (self-annihilation) and baqa (subsistence in God) to explain the process of spiritual growth. This journey leads to a state where worldly desires are subdued, and the soul becomes illuminated by divine essence:
“To reach perfection is to rise beyond the self, and to unite with the infinite.”
The Self and Mental Health
Modern mental health crises often stem from disordered narratives of the self. While physical health has improved globally, mental illness is on the rise. Excluding organic deficiencies, most mental health issues arise from negative self-perception and unhealthy internal dialogue. A distorted narrative of self-shaped by inadequacy, trauma, or societal pressures-can lead to conditions like depression and anxiety.
For example, negative self-talk (“I'm a failure” or“I don't deserve happiness”) reinforces cycles of low self-esteem and despair. This destructive internal dialogue erodes mental resilience over time. In contrast, a healthy self-narrative, rooted in self-compassion, purpose, and resilience, can act as a protective factor, promoting emotional regulation and well-being.
Modern life's relentless pace often leaves little room for introspection. People are encouraged to achieve, consume, and compete, but rarely to reflect on their own identity or purpose. This disconnection from the self fosters feelings of alienation and mental instability. Ignorance of self can disempower individuals, potentially leading to psychological disintegration.
The Paradox of Self-Actualization
Self-actualization is often viewed as achieving the“ideal self,” a concept frequently contrasted with the“real self.” While the ideal self represents an aspiration, the real self reflects one's current state. Importantly, the ideal is not static; it evolves over time.
The challenge lies in our perception of the ideal self as perpetually distant and unattainable, representing an unimprovable perfection. While absolute perfection may be unachievable, striving toward a healthy, evolving ideal fosters personal growth. The real self, though imperfect, is a reflection of the ideal. Changes in the ideal naturally influence the real, creating a dynamic interplay that drives self-improvement.
Conclusion
The concept of self is as profound as it is elusive, intersecting with philosophy, psychology, and spirituality. Western thought explores the self as a dynamic or stable entity, while figures like Freud and Jung analyze its psychological dimensions. Iqbal's Khudi adds a spiritual perspective, presenting the self as a divine essence capable of shaping destiny.
In mental health, understanding and nurturing the self is crucial for resilience and well-being. Whether viewed as a battleground of drives, a spiritual spark, or a narrative to be redefined, the self remains central to human experience. Through self-awareness, discipline, and introspection, individuals can navigate the complexities of selfhood, unlocking their potential for growth, purpose, and transcendence.
The author is a Consultation clinical psychologist Cyma care clinic, Male, Maldives. Email: [email protected] and Bachelors Student of Law and philosophy, respectively
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