The problem of self-knowledge

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Steven Ayan writes,

Princeton University psychologist Emily Pronin, who specializes in human self-perception and decision making, calls the mistaken belief in privileged access the “introspection illusion.” The way we view ourselves is distorted, but we do not realize it. As a result, our self-image has surprisingly little to do with our actions.

Read the whole article. It sounds like something out of Simler and Hanson.

2 thoughts on “The problem of self-knowledge”

  1. From the article:

    Much research indicates that our nearest and dearest often see us better than we see ourselves.

    From Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar:

    Therefore, good Brutus, be prepared to hear:
    And since you know you cannot see yourself
    So well as by reflection, I, your glass,
    Will modestly discover to yourself
    That of yourself which you yet know not of.

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