ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Self-model theory of subjectivity

Okay, so let me tell you a story about a really cool idea called the self-model theory of subjectivity!

You know how sometimes you might say, "I am hungry" or "I think that toy is cool"? These are things that show you are aware of yourself and your thoughts. The self-model theory is all about this - it's about how you make a model of yourself in your mind.

Think of it like playing with dolls. You have a doll that looks like you and you move it around, right? Well, your mind does something similar, but instead of a doll, it creates a model of yourself in your brain. This model includes things like how you see yourself, what you like, what you don't like, and what you think. It's like a little version of you in your brain that helps you understand and interact with the world around you.

But here's the thing, sometimes this model of yourself in your brain doesn't match up with the real you. It's like playing dress up but putting on clothes that don't fit quite right - it feels uncomfortable. This can happen when you feel like you're pretending to be someone you're not, or if you're in a situation where you don't feel like you belong.

Overall, the self-model theory is a way of explaining how you understand yourself and how that helps you navigate the world. It's kind of like your own special superpower!