Beyond sense and reaction

LIVING THINGS REACT.

A ‘thing’ is living if it is sensitive to changes in its external and internal (physical and mental) environments and if it reacts to those changes. The reactions can be more or less elaborate.

LIVING THINGS CAN REACT WITHOUT BEING AWARE OF THE FACT.

For example insect eating in plants, nest building in birds, iris dilation in humans. These are reflexes, instincts and intuitions which are genetically hard wired. There is no ego involvement and no free-will.

Sensation   - - reaction

LIVING THINGS CAN REACT AND BE AWARE OF THE FACT.

The ‘awareness’ can be after the reaction.  This leads to rationalization after the event; you react first (prompted by the unconscious (intuition)) and justify afterwards (prompted by consciousness (reason?)). Recent research suggests that this is the normal pattern. The post-event consideration can lead to learning through evaluation of appropriateness.

Sensation -- reaction -- post-event consideration



The ‘awareness’ can be before the reaction. This leads to pre-event consideration based on memories of earlier learning and leading to a less automatic response. This calls for self discipline and ‘slow’ thinking. Consciousness steps in between the sensation and the intuitive reaction so as to provide a more considered response.

Sensation -- pre-event consideration -- response

The awareness and consideration can be both before and after the response – life is an ongoing learning experience. “The unconsidered life is not worth living (Socrates).” Metacognition helps. It involves being aware of and controlling your thought processes

Sensation -- pre-event consideration -- response -- post-event consideration