Language, according to many, is a requirement for thought. True introspection would not be possible without learning to interact; "thinking" is merely interaction with the self. Wittgenstein suggested this role of language - he has been supported by many philosophers and even some empirical studies.
If this view of the mind is right, that language precedes thought, does not also the mask precede its wearer? Does not also the face we show to others precede our own identity? If you believe me to be - well, whatever I claim to be - does that not mean this is my true identity?
How does one know who one is behind the mask? Even looking in a mirror, I can only see my face, not my mind. Talking to myself, I hear only words. Surface precedes content. In this view, then, identity itself is nothing but a construct, a social construct, a statue of words and dead thoughts.
"The simulacrum is not that which hides the truth. It is truth that hides the fact that there is none.
The simulacrum is true."
