The Continuous Nature of Thought: Always Thinking, Even When We Think We Aren't
Thank you, Afia, for asking. The human mind is an intricate and fascinating entity, constantly processing a multitude of thoughts and ideas. Some of these thoughts adhere to the surface level, engaging with immediate surroundings and feelings, while many others remain buried at deeper layers. In this exploration, we will delve into whether we are truly thinking even when we believe we are not.
The Surface vs Deep Thoughts
When we engage in complex mental processes, we often focus on the surface-level thoughts, which are typically the ones we are most aware of and can articulate. For instance, when you're reading this article, you may be deeply engaged with the words and ideas presented, your conscious mind fully occupied. However, beneath the surface, there are countless subconscious thoughts, desires, and even memories that are influencing your current state of mind.
Subconscious and Conscious Thought
Subconscious thoughts are more difficult to grasp but just as pervasive. These are the thoughts that run in the background, often influencing our decisions and behaviors without us even realizing it. When we sleep, the patterns of our conscious thoughts tend to shift, giving rise to dreams. Dreams are a direct manifestation of the deep, subconscious mind, often reflecting our fears, desires, and unresolved issues. In this sense, even in a state of rest, our minds are still actively processing and thinking.
The Wisdom of Alan Watts
To further explore this concept, let's turn to philosopher and writer Alan Watts, who brought profound insights into the nature of thinking. Watts famously emphasized that the awareness of thinking itself is a profound realization. In his quote, he emphasizes the complexity of self-awareness:
“There was a young man who said though it seems that I know that I know, but what I would like to see is the I that knows me when I know that I know that I know.”
This statement challenges us to question our very understanding of self-awareness and the nature of consciousness. It prompts us to contemplate the layers of consciousness and the intricate web of thoughts that define our experience. Even when we believe we are in a state of emptiness or silence, there is still a constant stream of thoughts passing through our mind, whether we are aware of them or not.
The Continuous Nature of Thinking
So, to answer the question directly: Yes, we are always thinking, even when we don't believe we are. The mind is a dynamic, ever-changing entity, and thoughts are its constant currency. Whether we are actively engaged in complex reasoning or simply resting, our subconscious and conscious minds are never truly idle. This continuous nature of thought is a fundamental aspect of human existence and consciousness.
Conclusion
Understanding the continuous nature of thought can provide us with valuable insights into the workings of the human mind. It can help us appreciate the depth and complexity of our mental processes and encourage us to cultivate greater awareness and self-reflection. By embracing the idea that we are always thinking, we can better navigate the intricacies of our mind and enhance our overall understanding of ourselves.