The Iceberg Theory of Mind: Conscious and Unconscious

A Metaphor for the Structure of the Mind

Freud's iceberg theory is one of the most well-known and visually powerful personality theories that psychoanalysis has bequeathed to us.

According to this theory, the human mind resembles a large iceberg, with only a small portion visible above the water.

This metaphor serves to illustrate the idea that most of our mental life operates outside of our direct awareness.

Just as most of an iceberg remains hidden beneath the surface, most of our mind is located in the unconscious.

The Conscious Mind: The Visible Tip of the Iceberg

The tip of the iceberg, which is the visible part that is above the water, represents our conscious mind.

This part of the mind includes everything we are fully aware of and can speak about at any given time.

This is where our thoughts are found, our current feelings and perceptions, which are logical and rational in nature.

However, Freud argued that this conscious mind constitutes only about five to ten percent of our entire mind.

The Unconscious Mind: The Vast Submerged Portion

The vast portion of the iceberg that is submerged underwater represents our vast and powerful unconscious mind.

This part, which constitutes ninety to ninety-five percent of our mind, is an active system that influences us.

It contains a lifetime of memories that have been hidden, as well as our most basic instincts and deepest desires.

Freud believed that the unconscious mind influences our daily behavior without us being aware of its powerful and constant presence.

The Importance of Chi