The Function of Manas Dharma Principles

The Buddhist principles regarding the severance of self-view and the principle of manas (the subconscious) are of immense benefit to both Buddhism and humanity. Psychologists and sociologists can derive significant insights from them. By understanding the principle of manas, or the subconscious, they can engage in self-reflection, observe their own psychological phenomena, thereby coming to understand themselves, treat themselves appropriately, and even transform themselves—even without comprehending the Buddha Dharma. Sales personnel in enterprises also benefit, as they can know themselves and their counterparts, grasp the psychology of the other party, and guide them accordingly to achieve successful sales. All professions benefit from psychology, that is, the principle of the subconscious manas. What success studies refer to as "talking to oneself" is precisely the conscious mind influencing and guiding the manas, thereby subduing the self.

All issues of psychological barriers stem from problems with manas and the conscious mind; schizophrenia also arises from issues with manas and the conscious mind. When one talks to oneself, if the two selves cannot reconcile, a split occurs. The fundamental problem of schizophrenia is the lack of unity in the thoughts and concepts between manas and the conscious mind, a conflict in values, where the conscious mind fails to persuade manas to adapt to society. Sometimes, the conscious mind itself does not grasp the root of the problem, making it even less capable of effectively persuading and guiding manas. When one becomes utterly incompatible with society, trapped in a misconception or dead end, bound and unable to break free from these constraints, the mind becomes fractured. If one can clearly understand the issue of the five aggregates and the nature of manas and the conscious mind, and empirically realize that all phenomena are empty, no individual would suffer from mental or psychological disorders.