Tessellations and Identity: How Repeated Patterns Build Our Sense of Self | Amaal Kai | TEDxMVJCE

Core Argument - Human beings are inherently pattern-seeking, a trait evolved for survival, now shaping identity [1] - Identity is a mosaic constructed from habits, beliefs, experiences, and stories [1] - Repeated habits and stories subconsciously build identity, tessellating reality [1][2] - Belief systems, often adopted from external sources, can be re-examined and rebuilt to shape one's mosaic [4][5] - Shared fictions, like the concept of money, enable complex societal structures [7][8][9] - Consciously building one's identity involves curating habits, stories, and beliefs [11][12] Key Components of Identity Formation - Habits: Consistent repetition of habits creates alignment and shapes identity [1][2] - Stories: Humans use stories to understand the world and express themselves; repeated stories become part of identity [1][10] - Beliefs: Belief systems act as the glue holding the mosaic of identity together, influencing actions and perceptions [2][11] Societal Impact - Individually shaped identities tessellate into a larger society, influencing shared beliefs and behaviors [6][7] - The ability to share fictions allows humans to cooperate on a large scale [7][9]