A nonconscious proto-self continuously maintains the body’s survival range

Evidence

The ‘‘proto-self,’’ or ‘‘primordial self,’’ explains Damasio, covers ‘‘the ensemble of brain devices which continuously and nonconsciously maintain the body within the narrow range and relative stability required for survival. These devices continually represent, nonconsciously, the state of the living body, along its many dimensions.’’ — Catherine Malabou, What Should We Do with Our Brain?, 192

Categorization

• DEFINE: Damasio’s ‘proto-self’ is a defined technical term: nonconscious brain devices that regulate and represent bodily state.