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“The function of the ego is to test reality. However, the ego subverts this function if it begins to dictate the nature of reality instead of merely testing it. This happens when the ego denies its subservience to the body and asserts its supremacy. It is then like the hero who, after liberating the populace from one form of tyranny, becomes a dictator and subjects it to another. The ego originally functioned to protect the personality against witchcraft and sorcery. Now it beguiles the personality with words and images.” — Alexander Lowen
The function of the ego is to test reality. However, the ego subverts this function if it begins to dictate the nature of reality instead of merely testing it. This happens when the ego denies its subservience to the body and asserts its supremacy. It is then like the hero who, after liberating the populace from one form of tyranny, becomes a dictator and subjects it to another. The ego originally functioned to protect the personality against witchcraft and sorcery. Now it beguiles the personality with words and images.