human psychology
Psychological projection Psychological projection is a defense mechanism in which the human ego defends itself against unconscious impulses or qualities (both positive and negative) by denying their existence in themselves while attributing them to others. [1] For example, a bully may project their own feelings of vulnerability onto the target. It incorporates blame shifting and can manifest as shame dumping . [2] Projection has been described as an early phase of introjection . [3] Historical precursors A prominent precursor in the formulation of the projection principle was Giambattista Vico . [4] [5] In 1841, Ludwig Feuerbach was the first enlightenment thinker to employ this concept as the basis for a systematic critique of religion. [6] [7] [8] The Babylonian Talmud (500 AD) notes the human tendency toward projection and warns against it: "Do not taunt your neighbour with the blemish you yourself have." [9] In the New Testament , Jesus also warned