What is the Difference Between the Unconscious Mind, Subconscious Mind, and Conscience?
The concepts of the unconscious mind, subconscious mind, and conscience are interwoven yet distinct, each playing a unique role in the intricate workings of human psychology. This article delves into the essence of these terms, their origins, and how they interact with one another.
What is Conscience?
Conscience, derived from the Latin word conscientia, literally means 'with knowledge.' It refers to the moral sense or ethical awareness that guides our actions. Having a conscience means possessing a moral compass that discerns right from wrong and reacts accordingly.
Where Does the Conscience Come From?
According to Freudian psychology, the conscience, or what he referred to as the superego, develops from the incorporation of societal norms and values through the experiences of parental approval or punishment. This internalized set of rules and prohibitions guides our actions and prompts feelings of guilt and shame when we deviate from these moral standards.
The Unconscious Mind vs. Subconscious Mind
The unconscious and subconscious minds are two intertwined yet distinctly different aspects of our psyche. They are often used interchangeably, but for clarity's sake, it's important to understand the nuances between them.
Unconscious Mind
The unconscious mind encompasses all those aspects of our mind that we are not actively aware of, such as our reflexes and deep-rooted beliefs and emotions. This part of the mind is responsible for automatic processes like learning and memory, as well as instinctive responses to certain stimuli. It operates largely outside of our conscious awareness and can significantly influence our behavior without us being directly aware of it.
Subconscious Mind
The subconscious mind, on the other hand, is closer to our conscious awareness. It contains automatic thoughts, habits, and learned behaviors that we can tap into when we become more conscious of them. The subconscious mind is a repository of past experiences, emotions, and memories that can be brought to the surface with focused attention and introspection.
Conscious Mind and Conscience: An Ethical Guide
The conscious mind is the part of our mental framework that we are directly aware of, containing our thoughts, ideas, and rational judgments based on our experiences. It is here where we confront ethical dilemmas and make decisions about what we believe is right or wrong.
The conscience acts as a bridge between the unconscious and subconscious minds, serving as an intermediary in ethical decision-making. It helps us recognize moral dilemmas and draw on both our intuitive and rational sides to make informed choices. For instance, when faced with an urge to cheat, the conscience prompts us to reflect on our moral values and ultimately decides whether to act on the impulse or resist it.
Conclusion
While the unconscious and subconscious minds provide powerful impulses from our deep-seated beliefs and experiences, the conscience helps us regulate and guide these impulses. By consciously engaging with our moral compass, we can make responsible decisions even in challenging circumstances.