The function of the conscious versus the unconscious minds
The Conscious Mind (aware) |
The Unconscious Mind (unaware) |
| External | Internal |
| Logical | Irrational |
| Thoughtful | Emotional |
| Controlled | Wild |
| Mature | Childish |
| Concerned for others | Self-involved/ narcissistic |
| Strives to be perfect | Feels imposed upon-rage |
| Strives to be good | Feels imposed upon-rage |
| Guilty | Unconcerned |
| Courageous | Fearful |
| Independent | Dependent |
| Self-confident | Low self-esteem |
| Civilised/Moral | Savage |
The Conscious Mind(Outer Mind) |
The Subconscious Mind(Inner Mind) |
| Sometimes inactive i.e. sleep | Always active since birth |
| Organises | Instincts and habits |
| Discriminates | Uncritical acceptance. Literal interpretation |
| Active memory | Long term “forgotten” memories |
| Makes logical decisions | Preferences based on emotions |
| Critical thinking | Fantasy, imagination |
| Concepts | Images |
| Tries to control emotions | Origin of emotions |
| Avoids silence and reflection | Prefers quiet reflection |
Considering the research into the Split Brain Syndrome it appears that there is indeed some physiological basis of what many psychotherapists have long assumed – the idea that we all have a mind that consists of ‘seemingly’ independent parts that are undoubtedly designed to work together but are often (if not always) in conflict with each other.
However, if one considers all of this from a Buddhist perspective, it is unsurprising that the human brain should have developed in this specialised way. As mentioned earlier, perceived distinction (although Buddhism explicitly says that all is one) gives rise to conflict which in turn provides the necessary motivational drivers for greater development or self discovery as Carl Jung would have likely put it.