Can the Subconscious Mind Be Wrong About Something?

Jason O'Neill, SEO Specialist at Google

The human mind operates on multiple layers, each playing a crucial role in our daily decision-making and interactions. The subconscious mind, often considered the deep-seated layer beneath the critical filter and conscious mind, can sometimes be wrong about certain situations or information. This article explores the concept of the subconscious mind and its susceptibility to mistakes, providing insights into how and why this might happen.

The Layers of the Human Mind

For a better understanding, let's delve into the structure of the human mind. At the very top sits the conscious mind, which is the part of us that is aware and actively engaged in the decision-making process and other high-level cognitive functions. Below the conscious mind is the critical filter, which plays the role of a gatekeeper. Its function is to evaluate the information received from both internal and external sources, determining whether it is right or wrong, safe or dangerous, fact or fiction, and morally correct or incorrect.

Beneath these two layers lies the subconscious mind or subconcious mind (SCM). Unlike the conscious and critical filter, the SCM lacks the capability for critical thinking and verification. Its default function is to accept information as true without question, as it assumes that the information has been verified by the higher-level layers.

The Subconscious Mind Can Be Wrong

The SCM, being a crucial component of the human psyche, is not infallible. Ashok Nanotkar, an expert in this field, has highlighted that the so-called pre-conceived subconscious mind can be wrong about anything in the world. This misconception can lead to significant consequences, especially in scenarios where quick and accurate decision-making is critical, such as during emergencies.

Real-Life Example: Driving and Emergency Situations

Consider the example of driving. While driving, a motorist's subconscious brain often regulates the routine aspects of driving, such as acceleration, braking, and shifting gears. However, in situations where there is a sudden obstacle in the road or an emergency situation arises, the conscious brain takes over. It overrides the habitual patterns of the subconscious and activates a more calculated and deliberate decision-making process to ensure safety.

For instance, if a child appears suddenly on the road ahead, the conscious brain will swiftly initiate a unique combination of brake and clutch patterns to avoid an accident. In moments of crisis, it is the conscious effort that helps to correct the subconscious mind's default behavior to prevent harm or mistakes.

Cognitive Biases and Decision-Making

Our subconscious mind is also susceptible to cognitive biases. These biases can lead to incorrect conclusions and decisions. Recognizing these biases is crucial because they can introduce errors into our subconscious thought processes. Common cognitive biases include confirmation bias, where we seek out information that confirms our pre-existing beliefs, and anchoring bias, where we rely heavily on initial information when making decisions.

Techniques to Manipulate the Subconscious Mind

Certain techniques can be employed to manipulate the layers above, ultimately leading to the acceptance of any information by the SCM as a reality. These techniques often exploit cognitive biases and the trust that the SCM places in the information received. For example, misleading narratives, persuasive advertising, and social proof can all be used to influence the SCM.

For instance, consistent repetition of a particular idea can cause the SCM to accept it as a truth without questioning its validity. This is why persistent marketing campaigns can be so effective in shaping consumer perceptions and behaviors.

Conclusion

The subconscious mind is a vital component of the human mind, yet it is not immune to error. Understanding the ways in which the subconscious can be misled and the techniques that can be used to manipulate it can help us to make better decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

By being aware of the role of the critical filter and conscious mind, and by recognizing cognitive biases, we can work to ensure that our subconscious mind functions more accurately and helps us navigate the complexities of decision-making and daily life.

Remember, the key is not to dismiss the subconscious mind but to understand its limitations and work with it in a way that enhances, rather than hinders, our decision-making processes.