Full Idea
Two extreme views on the development of the self are 'internalist' and 'externalist'. The first starts with a baby's subjective experience, and increasing differentiation as self-consciousness develops. The externalist view requires language and society.
Gist of Idea
A sense of self begins either internally, or externally through language and society
Source
G Edelman / G Tononi (Consciousness: matter becomes imagination [2000], Ch.15)
Book Reference
Edelman,G/Tononi,G: 'Consciousness: how matter becomes imagination' [Penguin 2000], p.197
A Reaction
Edelman rightly warns against this simple dichotomy, but if I have to vote, it is for internalism. I take a sense of self as basic to any mind, even a slug's. What is a mind for, if not to look after the creature? Self makes sensation into mind.