University of Wollongong
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A pattern theory of self

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posted on 2024-11-15, 12:31 authored by Shaun GallagherShaun Gallagher
I argue for a pattern theory of self as a usefulway to organize an interdisciplinary approach to discussions of what constitutes a self. According to the pattern theory, a self is constituted by a number of characteristic features or aspects that may include minimal embodied, minimal experiential, affective, intersubjective, psychological/cognitive, narrative, extended, and situated aspects. A pattern theory of self helps to clarify various interpretations of self as compatible or commensurable instead of thinking them in opposition, and it helps to show how various aspects of self may be related across certain dimensions. I also suggest that a pattern theory of self can help to adjudicate (or at least map the differences) between the idea that the self correlates to self-referential processing in the cortical midline structures of the brain and other narrower or wider conceptions of self.

History

Citation

Gallagher, S. 2013, 'A pattern theory of self', Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, vol. 7, pp. 1-7.

Journal title

Frontiers in Human Neuroscience

Issue

JUL

Language

English

RIS ID

89056

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