Essence and Ego
Like some other systems of self-actualization, Arica works with the (ultimately illusory) separation of essence and ego. An important aspect of this work is to observe one's habits and reactions in accordance with a typology of nine. However, Ichazo referred to the characterizations as "fixations" rather than "personality types" and he repeatedly emphasized that every human being contains all nine types ("we have to awaken all the nine positions"). The fixation was simply a key to self-discovery, not a form of identity like one's sun sign in astrology.
The inherent difficulty of working with the ego and essence distinction while maintaining an ultimate philosophical stance of nondualism can be appreciated by mystics of any path. Such "inner work" entails the risk of inflating one's ego with notions such as "I am a special person because I have higher knowledge" or "I am aware of my ego, but you are not aware of yours". To avoid problems that could arise from this delicate type of work, Ichazo emphasized group exercises and honest interpersonal encounters ("ego reduction"). He also insisted on secrecy, specifically not propagating the theory without his permission. With this essential context in mind a person is prepared to understand Ichazo's position in the enneagram controversy.
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