How Do Our Beliefs Shape Our Interactions with Others?

Unveiling the Subtle Philosophies That Influence Human Connection

Beliefs—both conscious and unconscious—form the undercurrents of our interactions, influencing how we relate to others in ways that often go unnoticed. While mainstream philosophies like utilitarianism or religious doctrines provide an overarching framework, there are lesser-known philosophies and psychological insights that deeply shape how we engage with others. These hidden treasures of thought reveal just how nuanced and intricate the human lens of belief can be.

The Hidden Philosophies Behind Belief and Interaction

1. Levinas and the “Face of the Other”
   Emmanuel Levinas, a 20th-century philosopher, posited that ethical responsibility begins with encountering the “face” of the other. This face is not just a physical entity but a call for recognition and care. According to Levinas, when we meet someone, their very presence demands a response—not of dominance or indifference, but of ethical consideration.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     Levinas’ philosophy challenges the tendency to dehumanize others based on biases or beliefs. When applied, it fosters genuine engagement, as it compels us to see others not as abstractions (like “the rich,” “the poor,” or “the believer”) but as individuals worthy of empathy and respect.
2. Ibn Arabi’s “Unity of Being”
   The Sufi mystic Ibn Arabi introduced the concept of Wahdat al-Wujud (Unity of Being), which sees all existence as interconnected manifestations of the divine. This philosophy dissolves the boundaries between self and other, emphasizing unity over separation.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     When rooted in this belief, interactions transcend superficial differences like religion, ethnicity, or class. Instead, they focus on the shared essence of humanity, fostering deeper connections and reducing conflict.
3. Han Feizi and Control through Belief Systems
   Han Feizi, an ancient Chinese philosopher, approached belief and interaction from a realist perspective. He argued that rulers use belief systems as tools to maintain order and control. For him, beliefs are not just spiritual or moral but also political instruments.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     This perspective unveils the strategic side of belief systems, where individuals or institutions may manipulate interactions to align with hierarchical goals. It prompts a critical examination of whether beliefs serve genuine connection or perpetuate control.
4. Abhidhamma and Momentary Realities
   The Abhidhamma, an intricate Buddhist text, explores how fleeting mental states (called cittas) shape perception and interaction. Each moment of consciousness carries with it specific qualities—greed, compassion, anger—that dictate how we respond to others.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     This philosophy emphasizes mindfulness in interactions, as it reveals that each moment of engagement is influenced by transient internal states. By cultivating awareness, individuals can consciously shape their interactions with others, fostering harmony over conflict.

The Psychological Depths of Belief

1. The Fundamental Attribution Error
   Coined in social psychology, this concept highlights our tendency to attribute others’ behavior to their character while excusing our own actions based on circumstances.
   • Example in Interactions:
     If someone cuts us off in traffic, we might label them as inconsiderate. But if we do the same, we justify it as being in a rush. This psychological bias, rooted in our belief in personal responsibility, can hinder understanding and empathy in daily interactions.
2. The False Consensus Effect
   This psychological bias leads us to believe that others share our views and values more than they actually do.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     This belief can cause frustration or alienation when others do not act as we expect. Recognizing this bias allows for greater tolerance and acceptance of differing perspectives.
3. The Shadow Self (Carl Jung)
   Jung’s theory of the shadow self highlights the parts of our psyche that we repress or deny, often projecting these onto others.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     Beliefs about morality or superiority often stem from unacknowledged aspects of the shadow self. For example, someone who outwardly condemns greed may secretly struggle with materialistic desires. Recognizing this dynamic fosters more authentic and compassionate interactions.

Hidden Practices That Shape Interactions

1. Ma’at in Ancient Egyptian Thought
   The concept of Ma’at represents truth, balance, and cosmic order. It guided interpersonal interactions, emphasizing harmony over dominance.
   • Modern Relevance:
     Applying Ma’at encourages individuals to prioritize fairness and balance in relationships, reducing ego-driven conflicts and fostering mutual respect.
2. Ubuntu Philosophy (Southern Africa)
   Ubuntu, often summarized as “I am because we are,” places community and collective well-being above individualism.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     This philosophy shapes interactions by valuing interdependence. It discourages self-serving behaviors and encourages actions that benefit the group, promoting cooperation and shared progress.
3. Logotherapy (Viktor Frankl)
   Rooted in existential philosophy, logotherapy emphasizes the search for meaning as the primary driver of human behavior.
   • Impact on Interaction:
     When individuals base interactions on shared meaning and purpose, relationships deepen beyond transactional exchanges. This belief encourages seeing interactions as opportunities for mutual growth and understanding.

Conclusion: Beyond the Surface of Belief

Our beliefs, both explicit and implicit, shape our interactions in profound ways, often revealing hidden treasures of philosophy and psychology. Whether it’s the ethical call of Levinas, the interconnected vision of Ibn Arabi, or the fleeting cittas of Buddhist thought, these frameworks invite us to examine how our beliefs influence every word, gesture, and decision.

Understanding these subtle undercurrents allows us to approach interactions with greater awareness and intention. By reflecting on the philosophies and psychologies that guide us, we can transcend biases, foster deeper connections, and create a world where beliefs are bridges rather than barriers.