Understanding the software of the mind, self, and culture: Analysis of the secrets to happiness, health, and long life

Overview & Synopsis

This article examines the software of the mind, self, and culture that can explain the secrets to happiness, health, and long life. First, this article outlines the assumption of objectivity in science, and the importance of understanding the subjective and creative aspects of science. Second, Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory is introduced, providing the basis of understanding human creativity and software of the mind. He articulates the importance of understanding the precursors to human creativity and action: Intention, forethought, self-reflection, and self-reaction. Third, the understanding of the software of the human mind from the Western perspective is provided. Fourth, the East Asian perspective and Confucianism that emphasize the relatedness and connectedness of the self to others are introduced. Fifth, an understanding of how culture is socialized in children and the development of the self in East Asia are outlined. Sixth, the limitations of the traditional biological models in explaining the software of the mind, self, and culture are outlined by reviewing the scientific advances in epigenetics and neurobiology. Seventh, the economic, social, relational, and psychological factors explaining the secrets to happiness, health, and long life are outlined. Finally, the phenomenology behind the knowledge creation and the discovery process and the implications of the digital revolution for the Gen Zs are reviewed.