Matthew MacKenzie

(Re-)Constructing the Self

 Abstract:

 This paper aims to take up the complex dialectic between  self and selflessness as raised in the target papers of this issue and in

classical Buddhist thought. I’ll argue that the recognition that the

 self is constructed can lead, in the right theoretical and practical context, to (i) the deconstruction of fixed views of self, (ii) the decentring of  self-experience within a larger horizon of awareness, and (iii) the reconstruction of a more fluid self as a skilful means to cultivating and embodying wisdom and compassion.

https://www.academia.edu/27785793/_Re-_Constructing_the_Self_JCS

Objects of Consciousness

In the conclusion to his paper entitled Objects of Consciousness, Donald D. Hoffman (Professor of Cognitive Science, University of California, Irvine) writes:

"If we assume that conscious subjects, rather than unconscious objects, are fundamental, then we must give a mathematically precise theory of such subjects, and show how objects, and indeed all physics, emerges from the theory of conscious subjects. This is, of course, a tall order. We have taken some first steps by (1) proposing the formalism of conscious agents, (2) using that formalism to find solutions to the combination problem of consciousness, and (3) sketching how the asymptotic dynamics of conscious agents might lead to particles and space-time itself. Much work remains to flesh out this account. But if it succeeds, H. sapiens might just replace object permanence with objects of consciousness."

http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00577/full