I have some stray thoughts that I hope will coalesce through discussion.
I hope to find some common ground among theists/atheists regarding our understanding of ego and identity. Please watch the below video and comment (ignore the religious overtones).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cm2f15VYmzw
My thoughts:
As we live we build identities. For example, I have grown to think of myself as an intellectual. Now that I have formed this self image I need to protect it. If someone criticizes my intelligence or ability to think critically I will be offended.
Similarly now I am a Father so part of my identity is wrapped up in being a dad. Social norms dictate I need to ensure I am a good father.
You can fill in the blanks here for your own person. Maybe you are a science major and have built you identity on being knowledgeable of the sciences.
If you have difficulty pinpointing where you have built your identity think about what criticism would hurt/anger you the most. For most of us we allow our egos and self made identities to become inextricably wound.
I want this thread to be tangible and not just throw around mumbo jumbo terms.
One real life example is the hyper defensive (and aggressive) response of some Evangelicals. I think the reason many times Evangelicals can't reasonably discuss issues is because any questioning of Christian theology is in effect a threat to their own ego and identity.
Anyway appreciate your guys' (and gals?) thoughts. I hope you can understand the ideas I am driving toward as I feel I don't fully understand what I am trying to say myself.