Symbolic
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Thus the individual defines the self in a larger symbolic context such that they consider themselves not to be an embodiment of some singular individual, but rather to represent or be a representative of, any or all of a myriad of persons
or other living entities.
The Symbolic Self is a transcended individual, no longer only concerned with
the interests of the self and individual ego, but rather thinks, speaks and acts in terms of a larger sphere of awareness and sense of significance. The individual cannot physically be more than one person in one place at one time. But by means of Consciousness as awareness, one can identify with any number of identities. One can change one's name, pretend to be another, assume another identity, that establishes a change of identity. One can dress in costumes.
The individual can assume any number of symbolic identities by dressing in various uniforms such as clown, soldier, sailor, fashion plate, bride, groom or gangster. A policeman's uniform symbolizes a specific job and service provided, as well as the uniform of a fire person, nurse, doctor or construction worker.
However while one may symbolize to others that they are one of these characterizations, without the knowledge and content of the consciousness, concerns and awareness of these characters, the actor remains singular
and self oriented. Just by putting on a uniform, without the training and credentials, the individual is not one of these identities in reality.
If a doctor lives a life that possesses specific concerns such as health care,
disease, life and death, this sphere of interest and daily activity is a specific and singular consciousness. One who is not a doctor, while they may not be able to qualify to become an actual physician, can assume the Consciousness and
awareness of the doctor by adopting the same concerns, and to some degree
the knowledge, without actually practicing the profession. At the same time the individual can assume the Consciousness of the military person, the postal employee, the politician and any number of other identities. These identities, because they are only apparent in one's consciousness, are symbolic.
Symbolic Identity (3 of 5)
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