The "Self"

[Gjallarhorn]

The self exists as a gestalt of bodily factors. It exists in the same way a computer or car exists but, without all the necessary pieces, it ceases to be.

"Cogito, ergo sum" is circular reasoning and assumes that thought is controlled.

 

[Straw Dog]

The self is a particular perception of the continuity of consciousness. It is useful in so far as enabling the bearing of responsibility for certain memories, thoughts, feelings, words, and actions of a specific living entity. Pure individuality (division) and pure unity are both illusory. Grasping too tightly to either notion causes confusion. There's a middle way between them that takes time to balance out.

 

[IHaveTheGift]

Ones personality is just a small portion of ones Soul, the biggest being our subconsciousness.
Never the less "I" is ones Soul, when it comes down to it.

 

[Sir Doom]

...
What is your position on the Self? Does it exist at all?

Absolutely. Its the rest of you I'm not so sure about.

If so, how do you address the unlikely hood of the soul's existence?

I'm not entirely convinced there is such a thing as a soul, though I would be more likely to simply reassign the term than do away with it. Whatever it is that gives rise to my sense of 'self' is the soul, even if that doesn't correspond to some mystical force of being responsible for my consciousness or awareness or whatever. Its not that important in any case.

Or how do you address our ever changing physical form?

There is nothing in reality that does not change. Its only natural that I change as well.

If not, what creates the illusion of Self?

I think there should be a sharp distinction between an illusion and something that is wholly conceptual.

Can we eliminate it?

Short of death? Heavy conditioning, I suppose... But even then, who can say.

Is it even bad?

Not in the slightest.