Glossary entry

Introspection

Looking within to observe and distinguish the activity of the Present-day Personality.

Short explanation

Introspection is the practice of looking within in order to recognise the behaviour, tendencies, emotions and thoughts of the Present-day Personality. It belongs to the work of self-knowledge: learning to see what is taking place within us with honesty and discrimination.

Meaning within the teaching

Its introductory purpose is observation and recognition. More detailed practice belongs on a dedicated teaching page rather than within a short glossary definition.

Important distinctions

It is not self-condemnation or obsessive self-analysis.
It is not presented here as an advanced exercise.
It should not be confused with vague impressions or unsupported claims of perception.

Related terms

Present-day Personality — the activity observed.
Permanent Personality — the continuing identity from which the present expression is distinguished.
Introductory teaching page — continue reading.