On 2006-01-14, Mo wrote:
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When we're children, usually around the age of two, the identity formation process begins. Formative experiences begin to formulate identity in the conceptual transition of separates. Somewhere in the process, something will happen which brings a sense of recognition, in a symbolic rather than linguistic sense that I am a distinct entity. This is the formative, primodrial "I". Lacan said that this occurs in children the first time the see their reflection in the mirror, and the monkey brain recgonizes that the reflection in the mirror is themselves. From this point forward, the child's brain seeks to make distinctions between themselves and others: they begin to understand that "Mother" is not "I" (quotes exist because this is not a linguistic differentiation). During this time, Winnicott pointed out, they adopt a "transition object" a blanket, a bear, a doll, a ball. The object, to the child symbolizes a conceptual other... something that is separate from that "I". Having the transition object emotionally calms the child from a sense of separation anxiety. It allows the child to feel safe and connected even while he is coming to the understanding that he is distinct from everything else around him. The theory goes that we repeat this process over and over again throughout our lives. We attach to objects that are familiar to keep ourselves from feeling lost and separate in the world. So maybe we build characters because the serve as transition objects in activities that require intensified social competition or intensified social negotiational collaborative energy. Maybe having a second me just comforts us and makes our social, relaxation time feel more comfortable and social and relaxed. Funnily enough, Lacan went one more in the theory I talked about up top: he said that at the moment that the child recognizes himself in the mirror, something else happens besides the formation of the symbolic concept of "I". Because the child at this stage has no actualized concept of self, the child also has no concept of self doubt and the "I" becomes the "imago", or ideal self that the child, that we all strive to (unsuccessfully) become for the rest of our lives. If the character is a transitional object, maybe character can also be an expression of the ideal self. Really, when you think about it, it's really a crazy and interesting hobby we have here. |
Some maybe useful links: Complete Index of Entries Search for a Post or Comment Search the Forge Forums This makes... BR go "Freaking Lacan...." JeL go "Right on..." Your professional training or obsessive hobby knowledge is showing. I was going to post something like this, without your verve and command of the details. Since what you posted agress with my self-image, you must be right... |