The phrase “so carry on, love the subhuman self” might sound poetic and mysterious. But at its core, it is an invitation to accept every part of ourselves, including the primal instincts and raw emotions that society often teaches us to suppress. This concept has deep roots in psychology, philosophy, and self-growth. By understanding and embracing the subhuman self – those instinctive, less-refined parts of our nature – we can cultivate self-awareness, compassion, and authentic living.
In this topic, we will explore what the subhuman self means, why it matters, and how loving this part of ourselves helps in personal development.
What Is the Subhuman Self?
The Meaning of the Subhuman Self
The subhuman self refers to the part of us that is instinctual, emotional, and sometimes irrational. This includes desires, fears, impulses, and basic survival mechanisms. In psychology, this aspect is sometimes linked to Freud’s concept of the "id" – the unconscious part of the mind that harbors our most primitive drives.
The Subhuman Self Is Not Evil
It’s important to understand that the subhuman self is not something evil or shameful. It is natural. Every human being has instincts for pleasure, aggression, and self-preservation. Problems arise not from having these instincts but from denying or suppressing them, which can cause emotional imbalance.
Why Should We Love the Subhuman Self?
Self-Acceptance Starts Here
Self-love and acceptance don’t happen by loving only the parts of us that are polished and presentable. To truly accept yourself, you must also recognize and embrace the messy, imperfect parts. That includes moments of jealousy, anger, fear, and desire.
Repression Leads to Inner Conflict
If we constantly repress our subhuman nature, it doesn’t disappear. Instead, it can show up in destructive ways – sudden outbursts, anxiety, or even physical illness. By acknowledging these parts, we can integrate them in healthy ways.
It Builds Authenticity
Loving the subhuman self makes us more authentic. Instead of pretending to be perfect, we become real. We can connect more genuinely with others when we stop hiding who we are.
The Psychological View
Freud and the Id
Sigmund Freud described the id as the most primitive part of the psyche, driven by pleasure and survival. Though often seen as irrational, it plays a crucial role in motivating actions and desires.
Carl Jung’s Shadow
Carl Jung introduced the idea of the “shadow,” the unconscious part of ourselves that holds what we deny or reject. Embracing the shadow is part of achieving personal wholeness. Jung believed that loving these darker aspects leads to transformation.
Modern Psychology
Modern therapy approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS) also encourage individuals to recognize and care for all internal parts, even those considered negative or childish. Loving the subhuman self aligns with this therapeutic wisdom.
The Spiritual Perspective
Wholeness in Spiritual Teachings
Many spiritual traditions teach the importance of embracing the whole self. Buddhism, for example, encourages acceptance of all thoughts and feelings without judgment. Christianity speaks of grace – unconditional love despite imperfection. The phrase “love the subhuman self” echoes this universal spiritual message: you are worthy of love, even in your imperfection.
Integration, Not Suppression
Spiritual growth comes from integrating light and dark, not by rejecting one or the other. It is about transforming base instincts into conscious energy that serves personal and collective good.
How to Love the Subhuman Self
Practice Self-Compassion
Whenever you notice feelings of anger, envy, or fear, instead of judging yourself, practice compassion. Acknowledge: "This is part of me, and it’s okay." Self-compassion softens resistance.
Observe Without Judgment
Become an observer of your own instincts. If you feel sudden rage or desire, simply notice it. Curiosity allows space between the feeling and your reaction. This reduces impulsiveness and creates understanding.
Journaling for Reflection
Write down your thoughts and feelings, especially the uncomfortable ones. By bringing them into the light, they lose their power to control you. Journaling also helps reveal patterns in how your subhuman self operates.
Express It Safely
Allow yourself to express primal energy through physical activity, art, or other creative outlets. Dance, run, scream into a pillow – anything that channels raw emotion without causing harm.
Therapy and Inner Work
Professional therapy can help if certain subhuman impulses feel overwhelming. A skilled therapist can guide you in integrating these parts rather than fighting them.
Benefits of Embracing the Subhuman Self
Emotional Balance
Accepting your instincts leads to emotional stability. Instead of swinging between repression and overreaction, you learn to respond with awareness.
Confidence and Strength
Knowing that you can hold space for all parts of yourself builds confidence. You no longer fear your emotions or impulses; you work with them instead.
Greater Creativity
The subhuman self is a source of raw creative energy. Many artists, writers, and musicians draw from their most primal emotions to create meaningful works.
Deeper Relationships
When you love your subhuman self, you become less judgmental of others. Relationships improve as you accept imperfections in yourself and those around you.
Overcoming the Fear of Being "Subhuman"
Society’s Expectations
Society often pressures us to be rational, controlled, and "civilized" at all times. This creates fear around natural emotions. Remember that no one is purely rational or perfect. Everyone has moments of raw emotion.
Reclaiming Your Humanity
Being subhuman is part of being human. To love yourself fully, you must reclaim the parts that feel wild, unpredictable, or instinctual. This doesn’t mean acting on every impulse but respecting their existence.
Finding Balance
Loving the subhuman self is about balance. You honor your instincts without letting them rule you. Thoughtful action comes from integrating both reason and emotion.
So Carry On, Love the Subhuman Self
Life is not about perfection. It’s about honesty, balance, and compassion for the entire spectrum of human nature. The subhuman self – full of raw instinct, emotion, and desire – is part of you. Denying it only creates struggle. Embracing it fosters growth and authenticity.
So carry on. Love the subhuman self. By doing so, you unlock deeper self-awareness, emotional strength, and creative energy. You stop hiding and start living. This love is not indulgence; it is wisdom. It teaches us that even in our most primitive states, we deserve acceptance. In loving the subhuman self, we find peace with who we truly are – and from that peace, we move forward, stronger and more whole.