Chapter 1: The Nature of Our Brain

The brain is an intricate organ that dictates our understanding of the world. It is the repository of all our knowledge, yet it can be misleading at times. It provides information shaped by its own preferences and biases, rather than objective truths.

In contemplating the brain, I’ve often perceived it as existing in its own realm, distinct from our physical selves. Our consciousness is like a layer atop the vastness of the universe: the universe outside, our bodies within it, the brain enclosed in our bodies, and consciousness residing in the brain itself.

Attempting to deceive a mechanism that comprehends all we know—while also concealing much within the depths of our subconscious—serves no beneficial purpose.

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Section 1.1: The Brain’s Unyielding Nature

As I mentioned, we cannot easily trick our brains; they possess knowledge that often exceeds our own. Consequently, the brain can manipulate our perceptions, leading us astray when it chooses to.

At times, I ponder the notion that our brain functions like a parasite, residing within us and orchestrating our actions for its own benefit. It convinces us that we are merely our brains, which may serve its agenda, albeit with an air of selfishness. When this idea first struck me, I felt alarmed—was I hosting a parasite? I reassured myself, however, that if the brain is indeed a parasite, then I am one with it. The struggles of the body are not my concern (the brain had successfully led me astray once again).

Section 1.2: The Challenge of Understanding

My writing often meanders as various thoughts and associations emerge from my reflection. One question that struck me during these contemplative moments was why I experience frustration while reading technical books related to my profession, yet find joy in novels or philosophical texts.

The answer lies in the nature of comprehension. When engaging with technical material, I often let numbers and concepts dissuade me from pushing forward. If I could avoid this mental blockade, I would harness my reading skills more effectively in my career.

For those who are passionate about reading, it’s essential to persist even when faced with challenging material. What seems incomprehensible at first is often understood by our brains, albeit not yet accessible to our conscious thoughts.

During our initial reading, we form a broad understanding, and with repeated exposure, we begin to internalize what we initially struggled to grasp.

Chapter 2: Trusting Our Brain

The first video, "Why does the human brain ignore the second the?" delves into the brain's selective attention and its implications for understanding language and perception.

The second video, "An Argument Against Reality - Why You Can't Trust Your Senses," explores the reliability of our senses and the brain’s role in shaping our perception of reality.

In conclusion, we should cultivate trust in our brains. We might underestimate their capabilities because we perceive ourselves as their commanders, but they possess knowledge that surpasses our own. Our uncertainties are often the result of internal conflicts among various brain cells.

The changes in our decisions from night to day signify underlying struggles within our minds. A restless mind at midnight can indicate a coup against the reigning thoughts of the day.

We need to foster a positive relationship with our brains rather than treating them as mere subjects of control. A nurturing approach, much like an enlightened government that prioritizes education and welfare, can elevate both the brain and our overall well-being.

What I propose is to actively train your brain. Engaging with an educated mind is invariably more rewarding.