The Function of Manas in Dharma Principles

The principles of eliminating self-view and the principles of manas (the mental faculty) in Buddhism are of immense benefit to both Buddhism and humanity. Psychologists and sociologists can derive substantial advantages from them. By understanding the principles of manas, or the subconscious, they can engage in self-reflection, observe their own psychological phenomena, and thereby gain self-knowledge, treat themselves appropriately, and even transform themselves—even without comprehending the Buddha Dharma. Sales personnel in enterprises also benefit, as they can know both themselves and others, thereby controlling the psychology of their counterparts and guiding them along favorable trends to achieve sales success. All professions and industries benefit from psychology, that is, the principles of the subconscious manas. The "self-dialogue" mentioned in success studies refers precisely to the conscious mind influencing and guiding manas, thereby subduing the ego.

All psychological disorders stem from issues with manas and consciousness. Schizophrenia is also a problem of manas and consciousness. When one engages in self-dialogue and the two selves cannot reconcile, a split occurs. The fundamental issue in schizophrenia is the lack of unity in thoughts and values between manas and consciousness, where consciousness fails to persuade manas to adapt to society. Sometimes, consciousness itself does not grasp the problem at hand, making it even less capable of effectively persuading and guiding manas. If one becomes utterly incompatible with society, trapped in a dead end from which they cannot extricate themselves, and their thoughts become bound and unopenable, the mind splits. By clarifying the issues of the five aggregates and the relationship between manas and consciousness, and realizing the emptiness of all phenomena, no individual would suffer from mental or psychological illnesses.