The Doer is a Mental Invention for Practical Action - Understanding Our True Self - Part 19
The Illusion of the Doer - Practical Utility, Not Reality - Observing the Mental Invention - Freedom Beyond the Doer
The Doer is a Mental Invention for Practical Actions
The concept of the "doer"—the one who performs actions and makes decisions—is a construct created by the mind. It serves a functional purpose in daily life, enabling us to navigate the practical world, plan, and execute tasks. Yet, when examined closely, this "doer" is not a fixed entity but a transient mental phenomenon, arising and dissolving with each thought and action.
The Illusion of the Doer
From childhood, we are conditioned to identify with this "doer," believing we are the originators of our actions. This belief gives rise to phrases like "I accomplished this" or "I failed at that," reinforcing the notion of an independent self. However, this sense of authorship is an illusion. We can focus on this evidence from two positions: the materialistic and the mystical. Neuroscience reveals that decisions are made subconsciously before the conscious mind becomes aware of them[1]. The "doer" merely steps in after the fact to claim ownership of the act. Mystical and nondual traditions echo this understanding, teaching that the "doer" is merely a projection of the mind. In reality, there is no separate entity performing actions—there is only the seamless flow of existence, arising effortlessly in the present moment. The act and the actor are one and the same, inseparable from the greater whole.
"When we decide to decide?" Alan Watts[^2]
Practical Utility, Not Reality
The "doer" is undeniably useful for coordinating actions and responsibilities. It allows us to assign credit, learn from experiences, and function in a social context. However, it is important to understand that their benefits are not synonymous with our deep inner nature. Like a fictional character in a play, the "doer" serves a purpose within the narrative of life but lacks independent existence outside the mind.
Observing the Mental Invention
Through awarefulness (mindfulness), one can observe how the idea of the "doer" emerges. Notice the subtle shift when thoughts such as "I must do this" arise. The mind creates a narrative of an agent who acts. Yet, beneath this story lies pure awareness, observing the unfolding of actions without interference. Actions happen, decisions are made, and life flows—not because of a "doer" but through the interconnected dance of existence.
Freedom Beyond the Doer
Recognizing the "doer" as a mental invention opens the door to freedom. Without the weight of personal authorship, one becomes less burdened by guilt, pride, or regret. Actions are seen as part of the natural order, arising spontaneously from the conditions of the moment. This understanding fosters a profound sense of peace and a connection to the whole of existence.
Footnote
[^1]: The claim that "Neuroscience reveals that decisions are often made subconsciously before the conscious mind becomes aware of them" is supported by research, such as the seminal study by Benjamin Libet in the 1980s. Libet's experiments demonstrated that brain activity related to a decision occurs several hundred milliseconds before participants report being consciously aware of making the decision. This has been interpreted to suggest that the subconscious brain initiates actions, with the conscious mind retrospectively perceiving itself as the author. Key Source: Libet, B., Gleason, C. A., Wright, E. W., & Pearl, D. K. (1983). "Time of conscious intention to act in relation to onset of cerebral activity (readiness-potential): The unconscious initiation of a freely voluntary act." _Brain_, 106(3), 623–642. [Link to summary or reference in neuroscience literature](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benjamin_Libet).
[^2]: Alan Watts (1915–1973), a British-American philosopher, popularized Eastern philosophy in the West, particularly Zen Buddhism and Taoism. He often explored the illusion of the separate self and the idea that the "doer" is a construct of the mind. In his writings, Watts emphasized the interconnectedness of all things and the flow of life, urging individuals to see through the illusion of ego and surrender to the natural unfolding of existence.
Certainly! Here's a gentle invitation you can include at the end of your blog post:
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