The Escaped Sapiens Podcast The "Self" Is An Illusion | Thomas Metzinger | Escaped Sapiens #72
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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'.
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The Purpose of the Self
- Shane Farnsworth questions why we fabricate a sense of self if it's not needed for basic tasks.
- He points out that we can complete activities even when our focus drifts.
Layers of Self
- The self-model is multi-layered, from basic bodily sensations to higher cognitive functions.
- A key aspect is simulating possible futures, especially in social contexts.
Social Roots of Self
- The self may be a tool to navigate social environments, originating from interactions with caregivers.
- We construct models of others as agents, then apply this model to ourselves.