Reality: A Perspective on Non-Existence and Perception

What if the self we identify with is merely an illusion? What if the world around us is not an objective reality, but a collection of ideas? This perspective, rooted in Buddhist thought, idealist philosophy, and even modern psychology, challenges our conventional understanding of existence.

The concept of anatta (non-self) suggests that our identity is not a fixed entity, but an ever-changing process. Neuroscience supports this notion, indicating that the “self” is a mental construct rather than a concrete entity. If this is true, then the distinction between ourselves and the external world begins to dissolve. The world we perceive is not an immutable fact; it exists only as a product of our perception.

This realization can be transformative. When we no longer cling to the illusion of self, our understanding becomes unshakable. Reality is no longer something to fear or control; it becomes fluid and shaped by our perception. In this state of awareness, we don’t conquer the universe; it simply aligns with us.

However, while this perspective offers profound freedom, it doesn’t mean we should disengage from life. Even if reality is an illusion, our experiences and actions still have meaning. True wisdom lies in holding both perspectives: seeing beyond the illusion while still participating in the world with clarity and purpose.