Reexamining Consciousness Through Methodical Doubt

In a world where our way of thinking clashes with long-held dogmas and habits, critical self-analysis becomes an indispensable tool for achieving clarity. A philosophical approach, based on consistently reexamining our own beliefs, urges us not simply to accept everything at face value, but to regularly question both external and internal ideas. This process allows us to separate the unchanging conscious "self" from the ever-changing empirical experiences, leading to a more honest and realistic assessment of our mental state.

At the core of the method lies the idea of the necessity to uniformly apply doubt to all aspects of existence—both the external world and ourselves. Evaluating our sensations and notions becomes a process that transforms mere perception into a deep dialogue with oneself, in which every thought and dogma is constantly scrutinized. This is not merely an intellectual exercise but a dynamic way to transform one’s thinking and correct erroneous assumptions, opening the path to inner harmony.

Thus, when seemingly baseless doubts become the driving force of personal growth, their application becomes a necessary condition for forming a more holistic outlook on life. Methodical doubt helps us recognize that critical rethinking and the constant analysis of our beliefs are crucial steps on the journey to self-knowledge and the development of a mature, adaptable personality.

How can one objectively assess their mental state when doubts about their own adequacy arise?

The answer is based on the philosophical methodology of critical self-analysis, according to which an objective assessment of one's mental state requires a systematic reexamination of established beliefs and conscious assumptions about oneself. The philosophical approach suggests that for an objective evaluation, one must methodically question both external dogmas and the concepts of the mental subject. As noted in one of the sources:

"Methodical doubt plays an important role in philosophical thinking. Without preliminary doubt in all dogmatic views, it is impossible to achieve the correct result. But an equally radical transformation is required through a philosophical examination of our notions about the mental subject. Doubt in that which is accepted on faith is the first step towards transforming our thinking. Consequently, we must continue to apply preliminary doubt evenly to both sides of thought—the objects of the external world as well as the subject of our inner life." (source_file: link )

This means that an objective assessment of one’s mental state does not imply uncritical trust in one's self-perception, but rather, on the contrary, a critical rethinking of what is taken on faith. Another excerpt also emphasizes that in the usual course of life, doubts about one’s existence or personal identity may not hold practical significance; however, for detailed analysis, doubt must be extended to all aspects of consciousness:

"If, in the ordinary course of life, doubt in one’s existence or in the identity of one’s personality does not have practical seriousness, then the walking, pseudo-rational considerations that oppose this doubt can be considered even less seriously in a philosophical sense." (source_file: link , page: XXI)

Thus, objectively assessing one’s mental state when doubts about one’s adequacy arise is possible through the application of methodical doubt, that is, through the conscious and systematic rethinking of one’s assumptions about oneself. This approach allows us to separate the unchanging conscious "self" from the empirically changing personality and fosters a more realistic view of our own condition. It requires a continuous dialogue with one’s thoughts, scrutiny of dogmas, and reassessment of ideas accepted on faith about oneself.

Supporting citation(s):
"Methodical doubt plays an important role in philosophical thinking. Without preliminary doubt in all dogmatic views, it is impossible to achieve the correct result. But an equally radical transformation is required through a philosophical examination of our notions about the mental subject. Doubt in that which is accepted on faith is the first step towards transforming our thinking. Consequently, we must continue to apply preliminary doubt evenly to both sides of thought—the objects of the external world as well as the subject of our inner life." (source: link )

"If, in the ordinary course of life, doubt in one’s existence or in the identity of one’s personality does not have practical seriousness, then the walking, pseudo-rational considerations that oppose this doubt can be considered even less seriously in a philosophical sense." (source: link , page: XXI)