The real identity conflict: Human vs Person
Introduction
The question of our identity in this world is one of the biggest reasons for all quests and conquests that seems to be a human endeavor. But it is not a human endeavor, but a person’s misguided effort to fill a feeling of emptiness (not being complete or whole). What appears as a pursuit of peace, happiness, and harmony for the world outside of a person is often rooted in an identity crisis.
An identity is a set of beliefs an individual or person has about themselves. This identity is being constantly shaped and challenged unconsciously. Every action that is performed by a person comes from this set of beliefs and ideas, which is nothing but memory based on past experiences that have formed the personal, cultural and professional identity.
Cause of an identity conflict
Identity is important. It is what drives us. The concept of identity is not static but dynamic. If an individual’s beliefs and ideas on a particular object or subject are static, then they are living in the past and not considering the dynamic nature of reality.
A popular term called “Ego” is making the rounds of all self help books and spiritual practices. The ego is now become the fall guy which leaves no accountability for an individual. Misunderstanding this ego construct leads people down the path of seeking solutions to an illusory psychological problem. In trying to rid themselves of a so-called ego, they often fall prey to others who exploit this naivety by selling products, services, or spiritual enlightenment.
Any theoretical explanation to such a seeking person will go in vain, as the person does not want to ‘let go’ of this unconscious identity construct. In fact, the whole process of individuation ( suggested by Carl Jung) is based on the integration of the conscious and the unconscious, even though they are essential parts of a whole.
Effect as Loneliness
The result of this identity crisis is some cases is the ‘feeling’ of loneliness. This feeling drives choices in acquiring objects, maintaining relationships, or pursuing jobs. Even spiritual and religious pursuits aim to address this identity crisis, providing a sense of belonging to a community or an entity (God). These attachments only serve a static identity based in time and set in the past, offering a false sense of security.
Marketplaces throughout history have capitalized on this illusory problem of loneliness. Societal constructs enforce standards of behavior and responsibilities, apparently to provide security. Observing our surroundings, it’s clear that everything — from socializing in restaurants and bars to finding a soulmate or competing with neighbors — is designed to service this loneliness.
From my perspective, there’s a clear distinction between a Human and a Person. It’s all about identity. Do you see things as a representative of humanity, or as a person, wearing a mask driven by self-interest?
