The next stage in human consciousness is world-centric (everybody). At this stage, usually beginning in adolescence, a person can see reality through the third-person perspective. They are capable of thinking in global and universal ways — not just through an ethnocentric view.
The next stage of consciousness is ethnocentric. At this level, the person has evolved from complete egocentricity (me) to tribal sentience (we), where they are mindful of what’s in the best interest of the group they belong to.
The earliest stage of human development is what we refer to as egocentric (the “me” stage) because, at this stage, one cannot take the role of another or walk a mile in another’s shoes.
Growing up is part of life. We connect with others and mature in love, and move from one stage to another of normal human development. An evolution of consciousness where the way we perceive reality moves from 1st person, to 2nd person, to 3rd person, and so on.
Recent scientific studies indicate that many animals also have consciousness even though it’s different from humans. For instance, our little dog, Pumpkin (who, I must note, my family named without my consent), has a different awareness than me. She cannot recognize herself in a mirror, but she is conscious of herself by smelling her own feces (I’m happy that’s not a human quality).
