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Cognitive Distancing

By Michael Alan Prestwood

Fri 31 May 2024
Published 2 years ago.
Updated 2 years ago.
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Cognitive Distancing and the Stoic View from Above: Gain clarity and objectivity by mentally elevating yourself to see the broader perspective, reducing the emotional impact of transient thoughts.

Cognitive Distancing

Step outside your reality.

30 Phil, Chapter 13, Marcus Aurelius, Touchstone 35: Cognitive Distancing.

Cognitive Distancing is a psychological technique where one separates themselves from their thoughts and emotions to gain perspective and objectivity. By viewing thoughts as transient and not necessarily true, individuals can reduce their emotional impact and make more rational decisions. This technique aligns with the Stoic principle of View from Above, where one mentally elevates themselves to see the broader context of their situation.

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Michael Alan Prestwood
Author & Natural Philosopher
Prestwood writes on science-first philosophy, with particular attention to the convergence of disciplines. Drawing on his TST Framework, his work emphasizes rational inquiry grounded in empirical observation while engaging questions at the edges of established knowledge. With TouchstoneTruth positioned as a living touchstone, this work aims to contribute reliable, evolving analysis in an emerging AI era where the credibility of information is increasingly contested.
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