Consciousness and Control: Why the Brain is an Autonomous System

For the most part, we control all of our brain. If any part of the brain lacks control, it would be the result of a brain injury, neurological disorder, or illness. Many cases of mental illness also contribute to the confusion in brain control. However, the simple answer is that our brains, like most of the body's natural processes, are largely outside of our conscious control. This concept is fascinating and has been a subject of inquiry for many centuries.

The Role of Conscious Control

Our conscious sense of self is a mysterious and complex issue. Humans have pondered this question for as long as we have been aware of our own thoughts. Some believe that our conscious minds are evidence of a soul, while others argue that the mind is a construct created by the brain itself. Despite these debates, it is important to understand that we do not have conscious control over the brain. The brain is autonomous, controlling our thoughts, actions, and emotions.

The Brain's Natural Functions

Because the natural goal of the brain is survival, if all parts of the brain were under conscious control, humanity would be in constant danger. People might make changes to critical functions such as breathing, heart rate, and adrenaline flow without proper judgment. It takes great effort to consciously control even the most basic bodily functions, such as heart action. This is the way it should be. The brain is designed to function autonomously to ensure our survival.

Autonomy and Control

What you consider to be yourself is a fiction that exists within the brain-mind complex. It would be more accurate to say that you are a construct created by the brain. The brain creates a self for you, a mind, and gives you a sense that you can control anything, which is an illusion. When your brain makes you behave a certain way or perform an action, it also makes you feel that the decision was yours. In reality, the brain is doing all the work.

Thus, not only can you not control your brain, but the brain controls you. The brain controls everything your body does. It functions to maintain the perfect working order of your physical body. The human brain exists to maintain the human body's homeostasis. The human mind, on the other hand, exists metaphorically, not physically. It is this metaphysical mind, not the physical brain, that is responsible for thinking.

The Role of Free Will

The brain does not function to determine what you think or what you will to believe. The brain can only maintain the body in homeostasis. However, your free will has a significant impact on the brain. Your choices, such as what you eat, how much you exercise, and how well you take care of your body, all affect your brain and overall well-being. However, the brain itself does not control your thoughts. Instead, your metaphysical mind does. This mind controls your health, happiness, and wealth.

Understanding and Utilizing Free Will

To understand how the brain and free will interact, Richard Ryan's book Affective Psychology is highly recommended. It offers insights into controlling the thoughts that your brain generates. By reading and understanding this book, you can gain some guidance on how to control that which your brain does. Dr. Richard Ryan is a renowned expert in the field of psychological research and can provide more detailed information on the topic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while we believe we have conscious control over our thoughts and actions, the reality is that the brain is an autonomous system. Our consciousness is a construct created by the brain to help us navigate the world. Understanding this concept is crucial in comprehending the complex relationship between the brain and the self. By leveraging the guidance provided by experts and metaphysical insights, you can better control the thoughts and actions that your brain generates, ultimately leading to a healthier and more fulfilling life.