Cognitive Distancing
Notes
Claim
Cognitive distancing is when we try to separate between the external and our inner environment, and it is based on the assumption that in every moment we are more than just one thing Binary thinking reduces complexity to false dichotomies Multidimensional identity collapses into single fixed characteristic, that an external observer can't grasp our entirety just by looking at our actions, so why should we think that our actions are the only criteria for defining ourselves? Signaling is displaying qualities to appear worthy or successful
Explanation
Usually this is a tool used to bring Clarity is achieved through definition and presentation and Seeing reality without subjective bias reduces distortion to our Subjective perception filters how we see external reality, and reduce the influence of External influence constrains authentic identity and agency. Cognitive distancing helps us put a wedge between what we are experiencing and our inner world, to Zooming out gains perspective through mental distance and see things more clearly.
By trying to separate between harmful actions that might have happened and our identity, we might be able to heal by understanding that these actions don't define us, we don't have to act this way forever, and that we can change Capabilities are malleable through effort and learning. This is similar to how Meditation strengthens focus and mindfulness through intentional presence asks us to treat our thoughts as nothing more than things that pop into our mind, and disappear as quickly as they came.
Why it matters
Examples
Supporters
Opposers
In contrast, constantly seeking for Actions and physical states unconsciously shape our beliefs, the attempt to create an unbreakable bridge between identity and action can only lead to a Fixed mindset assumes capabilities are unchangeable from birth, where we can't escape being any different than who we are now.
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Overview
🔼Topic:: Identity Formation ◀Origin:: 🔗Link::