The self is an illusion from "summary" of Why Buddhism is True by Robert Wright
The feeling that there is a permanent, unchanging "self" at the core of our being is an illusion. This illusion is created by the brain's tendency to stitch together various perceptions, thoughts, and emotions into a coherent narrative. This narrative gives us a sense of continuity over time and a feeling of unity in the present moment. However, upon closer examination, this sense of self dissolves, revealing a more fluid and ever-changing reality underneath. Our perception of the self is also influenced by the brain's tendency to categorize and label experiences. This labeling process creates a sense of boundaries between "self" and "other," leading to the illusion of a separate and independent self. In reality, these boundaries are porous and constantly shifting, blurring the line between se...
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