The basis of the self is not thought but suffering, which is the most fundamental of all feelings. While it suffers, not even a cat can doubt its unique and uninterchangeable self. In intense suffering the world disappears and each of us is alone with his self. Suffering is the university of ego-centrism.
Milan Kundera, in his book "Immortality," argues that suffering serves as the foundation of the self rather than thought. He suggests that experiencing pain brings a profound sense of individuality, making it clear that each person's existence is unique and irreplaceable. In moments of deep suffering, external distractions fade away, leaving individuals alone to confront their true selves.
This intense focus on personal suffering reinforces a sense of ego-centrism, highlighting that the experience of pain can lead to a solitary awareness of one's identity. Kundera underscores how this process reveals the essence of being, prompting a deeper understanding of how we relate to ourselves and the world.
