otherreflection

otherreflection is a term used in philosophy and cognitive science to describe a specific kind of self-awareness. It refers to the capacity to understand oneself as the object of another person's thoughts or perceptions. This is distinct from simply being aware of oneself; it involves recognizing that another individual has beliefs, desires, or intentions concerning oneself.

This concept is closely related to the idea of "second-order desires" as proposed by Harry Frankfurt. A second-order desire is a desire about a desire. For example, one might desire to smoke, but also have a second-order desire not to desire to smoke. otherreflection suggests a similar recursive structure applied to understanding how others view us. It implies an ability to meta-cognize the mental states of others as directed towards oneself.

Developmentally, the capacity for otherreflection is thought to emerge relatively late. Young children typically develop an understanding of others' mental states (theory of mind) before they can grasp that these states are specifically about *them*. This ability is crucial for social interaction, enabling individuals to navigate complex social dynamics, understand social cues, and form deeper relationships. It underpins empathy, as understanding how someone else feels about you can inform how you feel about them. The absence or impairment of otherreflection can be associated with certain social and psychological conditions.