Hic Sum
Hic Sum (Here I Am)
Introduction:
Hic Sum, meaning "Here I Am" in Latin, is one of the fundamental components of the 7PartSelf model. This part represents the purely neurological realm of the human Self, encompassing the inner workings of the brain and nervous system. It is the domain where the historical and adaptive aspects of the Self are stored, shaping how an individual perceives and interacts with the world.
Functions:
Neurological Realm: Hic Sum is responsible for the brain's internal processes, including memory storage, neural pathways, and the integration of sensory input with existing knowledge.
Historical and Adaptive Aspects: It holds the individual's life history, learning experiences, and adaptations, which are critical for survival and development.
Storage of the Self: Acts as the repository for personal identity, including personality traits, habits, and behavioral patterns.
Control System:
Domain of Influence (D.o.I.): The functioning of Hic Sum is governed by the Domain of Influence, which includes various neurological processes and mechanisms that control how information is processed and stored within the brain.
Role in Self:
Historical Repository: Hic Sum serves as the internal archive of one's life experiences, influencing future responses and behaviors.
Adaptive Mechanism: It enables individuals to adapt to new situations by drawing on past experiences and modifying behavior accordingly.
Organizing Principle:
Neurology: The organizing principle of Hic Sum is based on neurological processes. It emphasizes the importance of brain function and structure in shaping the Self.
Research Influences:
Charles Darwin (Evolutionary Theory): Darwin's work on evolution provides insights into how adaptive behaviors and traits are passed down and developed over time.
John Weir Perry (Psychological Integration): Perry's theories on psychological integration help explain how different aspects of the Self are brought together to form a cohesive identity.
Venn Position:
Singular Domain of Circle A: Hic Sum is located within the singular domain of circle A in the 7PartSelf Venn diagram, indicating its unique role in the internal workings of the Self.
Boundaries Shared:
Internal Stimulus: Hic Sum shares boundaries with Internal Stimulus, indicating its connection to the inner realm and the triage of internal stimuli for stability and predictability.
Somnium Nexu: It also shares boundaries with Somnium Nexu, linking it to the realm of dreams and the collective unconscious.
Detailed Explanation
Neurological Realm:
Hic Sum operates within the neurological realm, focusing on the brain's inner workings. It involves complex processes such as synaptic connections, neural plasticity, and the interaction of various brain regions. This part of the Self is crucial for understanding how we process information, store memories, and develop our identity over time.
Historical and Adaptive Aspects:
As the historical repository of the Self, Hic Sum retains all past experiences, knowledge, and learned behaviors. This extensive archive enables individuals to adapt to new environments and situations by referencing previous experiences and applying learned strategies. This adaptive mechanism is essential for survival and personal growth.
Storage of the Self:
Hic Sum serves as the internal storage system for personal identity. It includes everything that makes up an individual's personality, from ingrained habits and preferences to deeply held beliefs and values. By maintaining this repository, Hic Sum ensures continuity and coherence in one's identity over time.
Domain of Influence:
The Domain of Influence governs Hic Sum's operations, encompassing various neurological controls and processes. This includes the regulation of neural pathways, the processing of sensory input, and the storage and retrieval of memories. The Domain of Influence ensures that Hic Sum functions efficiently and effectively within the broader Self.
Role in Self:
Hic Sum plays a critical role in shaping the overall Self. By storing historical and adaptive aspects, it provides a foundation for personal identity and influences how individuals respond to their environment. This role is central to the development of a cohesive and adaptive Self, capable of navigating the complexities of life.
Organizing Principle:
The organizing principle of Hic Sum is neurology. This principle highlights the importance of understanding the brain's structure and function in comprehending the human Self. Neurology provides the framework for exploring how neural processes contribute to identity, behavior, and adaptation.
Research Influences:
Charles Darwin's evolutionary theory and John Weir Perry's work on psychological integration significantly influence the understanding of Hic Sum. Darwin's insights into adaptation and survival help explain how the brain evolves to meet environmental challenges. Perry's theories on integrating various aspects of the Self provide a foundation for understanding how Hic Sum interacts with other parts of the 7PartSelf model.
Venn Position and Boundaries:
Positioned within the singular domain of circle A, Hic Sum uniquely focuses on the internal neurological processes of the Self. It shares boundaries with Internal Stimulus and Somnium Nexu, indicating its connections to the inner realm and the collective unconscious. These boundaries highlight Hic Sum's role in integrating internal stimuli and connecting personal experiences with collective symbols and dreams.
Conclusion
Hic Sum is a foundational component of the 7PartSelf model, representing the purely neurological realm of the human Self. It encompasses the brain's internal workings, stores historical and adaptive aspects of identity, and plays a crucial role in shaping personal identity and behavior. By understanding Hic Sum, we gain deeper insights into how our brains function and how our past experiences influence our present and future selves.
