The Function of the Manas Doctrine

The Buddhist principles regarding the severance of self-view and the principle of manas (the subconscious mind) 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, individuals can engage in self-reflection, observe their own psychological phenomena, and thereby gain self-knowledge, treat themselves appropriately, and even transform themselves—even without yet comprehending the Buddha Dharma. Sales professionals in enterprises also benefit, as they can know themselves and their opponents, thereby mastering the psychology of others and guiding them accordingly to achieve sales success. All professions can benefit from psychology, that is, the principle of the subconscious manas. What success studies refer to as "dialogue with oneself" is precisely the conscious mind influencing and guiding the manas, thereby subduing the ego.

All psychological disorders stem from issues with manas and the conscious mind. Schizophrenia, too, arises from problems with manas and consciousness. When one engages in dialogue with oneself and the two selves cannot reconcile, a split occurs. The fundamental issue in schizophrenia is the lack of unity in the thoughts and values between manas and the conscious mind, where consciousness fails to persuade manas to adapt to society. Sometimes, the conscious mind itself does not grasp the core problem and thus cannot effectively persuade or guide manas. If one becomes fundamentally incompatible with society, trapped in a misconception or dead end, with thoughts and beliefs constrained and unable to break free, the mind splits. By clarifying the nature of the five skandhas and the relationship between manas and consciousness, and by realizing that all phenomena are empty, no individual would suffer from mental or psychological illnesses.