ABSTRACT
The development of self-awareness in humans has yielded several advantages for the species. However, we know little about the functions of self-awareness in the evolution of our species. The advances in evolutionary psychology have so far neglected higher-order self-processes in humans. This chapter attempts to provide the functions of self-awareness, specifically in its ability to facilitate self-control. In doing so, the chapter delineates (a) how self-awareness evolved in humans; (b) what functions self-awareness serve; and (c) how self-awareness is reflected in delaying costly short-term needs and enhancing self-control that brings well-being for the individual, thereby increasing fitness benefits. The chapter uses evidence from studies done on humans and non-human primates to convey the theoretical assertions. The implications of this work are twofold. First, it shows how humans managed, to some extent, to control unconscious and instinctual responses by eliciting conscious and voluntary responses. Second, the chapter highlights the psychological mechanisms of associating self-awareness and self-control.
