Metaphors - Some Thought Provoking Ideas

The most interesting metaphors may be those that relate to consciousness. They also can be very useful for understanding how we operate. The modern classic is using the computer to comprehend the brain and mind. If the brain is the hard drive, the mind consists of the operating system as well as any and all the software programs that are installed.

How does this matter? After all, we could think about the mind or brain in other ways, perhaps even in ways that are not metaphorical (although metaphors are so pervasive in our thinking that some are likely to sneak in regardless of our efforts to the contrary). One example of the usefulness of this metaphor is that it makes it clear how we can increase the power of our thinking even if we can't raise our IQ. We simply install new programs, meaning we find new patterns of thought, new perspectives and other ways to better use what we have.

Another area where metaphors can really clarify our understanding is that of spirituality. Even if you approach this as a matter of psychology, there is a lot to be learned when we use different metaphors. For example, if I were to point out that there are parts of us that seek only to perpetuate themselves with no interest in our well-being, you may not understand what I'm getting at. But when I suggest that there are many "voices" inside you pretending to be yourself, it starts to become clearer.

Taking this further, you can perhaps recall times when you reacted just like a parent would have, even though there was a better response to a situation. The voice of your father took hold of your consciousness, just as the voice of fear or the voice of pride can. And when you see that the control these voices have is in our mistaken belief that they are us, you can stop listening as often. You might further use the metaphor of the "still quiet voice of God within," to understand where you should take your orders. This can work to clarify things even if you are an atheist.

These are just two examples of the power of metaphors to alter the ways in which we understand things. For more on metaphors and consciousness, see the page; I Am A Metaphor -The Metaphorical Nature Of Consciousness. And for more on metaphors and spirituality you can visit the page, Spiritual Metaphors.

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