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Writer's pictureYann Marek

The Psychological Mechanism of Inventing Enemies: An Analysis of the Need to Escape Self-Centrism

The Psychological Mechanism of Inventing Enemies: An Analysis of the Need to Escape Self-Centrism


Introduction


Throughout my life, I have suffered because I was often cast in the role of the enemy or scapegoat due to my authenticity and originality. Unable to conform to others' expectations, I was perceived as a threat. This caused me immense guilt and suffering. However, I managed to escape this suffering and avoid falling back into old patterns, both my own and those of others, thanks to a combination of micro-dosing psychedelics and methods I developed myself.


Humans are complex creatures, governed by a set of conscious and unconscious motivations. Among these psychological mechanisms, the invention of imaginary or exaggerated enemies plays a significant role. This phenomenon allows individuals to project internal conflicts outward, offering an escape from their own self-centrism and facilitating better management of their anxieties and frustrations.


Self-Centrism and Its Limits


Self-centrism, or excessive focus on oneself, is a natural tendency. However, when it becomes too dominant, it can lead to feelings of stagnation, isolation, and frustration. Self-centered individuals may find it difficult to give their existence meaning in the absence of significant external challenges.


The Function of the Imagined Enemy


1. Self-Definition by Opposition:

Inventing enemies allows individuals to define themselves by contrast. By projecting negative qualities onto an imaginary adversary, they reinforce their own identity and value their perceived qualities. This creates a sense of clarity and direction, giving structure to their existence.


2. Displacement of Internal Conflicts:

Internal conflicts can be difficult to confront directly. By externalizing these conflicts towards an external enemy, individuals can deal with them in a more tangible and less threatening manner. This psychological defense mechanism, known as projection, helps reduce anxiety and maintain a positive self-image.


3. Motivation and Purpose:

The presence of an enemy stimulates a sense of struggle and survival, which are powerful psychological drivers. Confrontation with an enemy, even an imaginary one, gives a reason to fight, a goal to achieve, and a justification for one's actions and existence.


Underlying Mechanisms


1. Projection:

Projection is a defense mechanism where feelings, thoughts, or impulses that the individual finds unacceptable are attributed to someone else. This protects the ego and maintains an intact self-image.


2. Reaction Formation:

This mechanism involves adopting an attitude opposite to an unacceptable internal impulse. Thus, by inventing an enemy, the individual can express feelings of anger or hostility they couldn't accept in themselves.


3. Rationalization:

Individuals use rationalization to justify their behaviors and thoughts by inventing enemies. This allows them to provide a logical and morally acceptable explanation for their actions, thus reducing cognitive dissonance.


Consequences and Implications


1. Social Cohesion:

At a collective level, inventing common enemies can strengthen group cohesion and identity. However, it can also lead to social divisions and conflicts.


2. Impact on Mental Health:

While inventing enemies can temporarily relieve anxiety and strengthen identity, in the long term, it can lead to paranoia and a distorted worldview. A continuous perception of external threats can negatively affect mental health.


Conclusion


The psychological mechanism of inventing enemies to escape self-centrism is deeply rooted in human survival strategies. Although it may offer immediate benefits in terms of anxiety reduction and identity reinforcement, it presents significant risks for interpersonal relationships and long-term mental health. Recognizing and understanding these mechanisms can help develop healthier approaches to managing internal and external conflicts, thus promoting better psychological balance.

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