Anatomy of the Ego: A Minimal Structural Model

This paper proposes a minimal formalization of the ego that enables its operational analysis. The approach is theoretical-structural and operates at an ontological level that neither replaces nor contradicts existing psychological and philosophical frameworks, but proposes an analytical schema compatible with them. Unlike frameworks that conceive of the ego as a psychic instance (Freud), the center of a conscious field (Jung), or an illusion to be transcended (contemplative traditions), the model proposed here formalizes it as a particular configuration of consciousness, organized around four fundamental dimensions: singularity, agency, impulse, and relation. This approach establishes a conceptual bridge between academic perspectives and colloquial uses of the term, generating structural coherence and applicability, and introduces the concept of conscious delegation as a regulatory mechanism for action. Beyond a structural description, the paper presents a dynamic model that permits the description and anticipation of functional patterns from the configuration of its dimensions. The work is ontological in character with applications in psychology. It presents no empirical evidence; it proposes a formal framework with pedagogical and reflexive potential in clinical contexts.

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Publication Details

Journal
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Published
2026-05-30
DOI
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19432578
Primary Topic
Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy
Type
preprint
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preprint

Anatomy of the Ego: A Minimal Structural Model

Henry Molina
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy
preprint

Anatomy of the Ego: A Minimal Structural Model

Henry Molina
preprint en

Abstract

This paper proposes a minimal formalization of the ego that enables its operational analysis. The approach is theoretical-structural and operates at an ontological level that neither replaces nor contradicts existing psychological and philosophical frameworks, but proposes an analytical schema compatible with them. Unlike frameworks that conceive of the ego as a psychic instance (Freud), the center of a conscious field (Jung), or an illusion to be transcended (contemplative traditions), the model proposed here formalizes it as a particular configuration of consciousness, organized around four fundamental dimensions: singularity, agency, impulse, and relation. This approach establishes a conceptual bridge between academic perspectives and colloquial uses of the term, generating structural coherence and applicability, and introduces the concept of conscious delegation as a regulatory mechanism for action. Beyond a structural description, the paper presents a dynamic model that permits the description and anticipation of functional patterns from the configuration of its dimensions. The work is ontological in character with applications in psychology. It presents no empirical evidence; it proposes a formal framework with pedagogical and reflexive potential in clinical contexts.

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Peace, Justice and strong institutions
Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy
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