What Is a Doppelganger? Definition & 15+ Examples

Have you ever encountered someone who eerily resembled you or someone you know? What if we told you that this uncanny experience could be more than just a simple coincidence?

Doppelgangers have been the subject of fascination in various cultures and storytelling traditions throughout history. From ancient myths and legends to modern literature and cinema, doppelgangers have captured the human imagination in ways that both intrigue and unsettle us.

In this article, we will further explore the concept of doppelgangers, including their definition, origins, and examples. Let’s uncover the truth behind these perplexing entities — you might just learn something new about your own “twin” lurking in the shadows.

What Is a Doppelganger?

A doppelganger, in its most fundamental sense, is a look-alike or a double of a person. It is often used to describe people who share an uncanny physical resemblance to one another, whether they are related or not.

In folklore and mythology, doppelgangers have often been seen as harbingers of bad luck or as paranormal entities. However, the concept has become popular in literature, cinema, and television, where doppelgangers provide interesting storytelling elements and serve as metaphors for various aspects of human nature.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

Doppelgangers have long been a captivating topic throughout many cultures and historical periods. Here are some notable occurrences and interpretations of doppelgangers in different cultural settings:

Literature

Throughout literary history, doppelgangers have often symbolized the darker, unresolved aspects of a character’s psyche. Famous examples include Robert Louis Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Edgar Allan Poe’s William Wilson.

Mythology

In multiple mythologies, doppelgangers have appeared as omens or harbingers of misfortune.

Greek Mythology

Examples from Greek mythology include Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, mistaking it for another person, and Zeus, who would sometimes appear as a doppelganger of mortals to deceive others.

Norse Mythology

In Norse mythology, Loki, the god of mischief, would often take on the appearance of other gods to cause chaos and trickery within the Norse pantheon.

Native American Mythology

Native American folklore speaks of doppelganger-like entities known as ‘skinwalkers,’ who possess the ability to shape-shift and impersonate other creatures, including humans.

Folklore and Legends

Doppelgangers have also appeared as important elements in various regional folktales and legends.

East Asian Legends

In East Asian cultures, the idea of the ‘kijin,’ or ‘oni,’ represents malevolent spirits capable of taking on human form, often appearing as doppelgangers of their victims.

European Folklore

Within European folklore, the notion of the ‘fetch’ or ‘doppelganger’ is prevalent, with these beings seen as omens of bad luck or death when encountered by their human counterparts.

Did You Know? A 'fetch' is a supernatural double or apparition of a living person in Irish folklore. The fetch is often considered an omen of impending death, as it is said to appear when someone is near the end of their life.

Evolution and Influence on Societies Across Time

Doppelganger stories have not only evolved over time but have also influenced the way societies perceive identity and selfhood.

From the duality seen in literary works to misconceptions about mental illnesses like schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder, the idea of the doppelganger has had a profound impact on the collective human consciousness.

Doppelganger Phenomena

Throughout history, various beliefs and theories have sought to explain this uncanny phenomenon. This section delves into some possible explanations and the doppelganger’s representation in popular culture and literature.

Possible explanations

Various factors can contribute to the occurrence of doppelgangers, such as:

• Genetics
• Environmental influences
• Coincidences

In some cases, doppelgangers can be the result of long-lost twins or relatives, while in others, the resemblance might be purely coincidental.

Psychological factors

The human brain is known for its pattern recognition abilities, which sometimes can lead to false recognition of familiar faces in strangers. This phenomenon, called pareidolia, may account for some instances of perceived doppelgangers.

Scientific Explanations and Investigations

Genetic research has unveiled that humans share a vast percentage of their genetic makeup. Thus, it is not implausible to encounter unrelated individuals bearing striking physical resemblances.

Further investigations in this area could shed light on the underlying processes of human appearance and doppelganger phenomena.

Paranormal Beliefs

Some cultures and individuals attribute doppelgangers to supernatural or paranormal phenomena, often viewing them as harbingers of bad luck or even death. These beliefs generally revolve around the idea of an evil twin or a soulless manifestation of oneself.

Paranormal Theories

A few paranormal theories propose that doppelgangers might be entities from other dimensions, astral projections, or even manifestations of past lives. However, these theories remain speculative and unverified.

In Pop Culture

Doppelgangers are a popular theme in films, television shows, and other forms of entertainment. They often serve as a plot device, highlighting themes of identity, deception, and self-discovery. Examples include the movies The Parent Trap and The Prestige.

In Literature

The concept of doppelgangers can be traced back to ancient myths and legends, but it has also been a recurring element in literature throughout history.

Works such as Edgar Allan Poe’s William Wilson, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s The Double, and Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray are exemplary of its long-standing presence in written narratives.

Twin Strangers

A contemporary phenomenon that gained popularity on social media is the search for “twin strangers,” or individuals who share an uncanny resemblance but are not biologically related. This trend has sparked interest and curiosity among people worldwide, showcasing the ubiquity and fascination with doppelgangers.

Doppelganger vs. Twin

A doppelganger and a twin may seem similar at first glance, yet they differ in several ways.

• A doppelganger is typically considered a non-biologically related look-alike or a paranormal double of a living person, while a twin is a sibling who was born from the same pregnancy as their counterpart.

• Twins share a genetic connection and often have similar physical traits, while doppelgangers bear a striking resemblance to another person without any known blood relation.

In some cases, doppelgangers are thought to possess sinister intentions, whereas twins are simply family members.

The concept of doppelgangers often appears in literature, mythology, and folklore. They are commonly portrayed as shadowy figures, evil twins, or eerie doubles.

On the other hand, twins are often integrated into real-life narratives and families. The table below highlights some key differences between doppelgangers and twins:

Doppelganger	Twin
No genetic relation	Genetically related
Associated with folklore and mythology	Occurs naturally
Often perceived as sinister or malevolent	Viewed as part of a family unit

In conclusion, doppelgangers and twins may share some physical similarities, but they differ in origin, cultural connotations, and extra-familial affiliations. Understanding these differences allows for a more comprehensive view of both concepts.

Evil Entities and Omens

A doppelganger can sometimes be associated with evil entities or ill omens, causing fear or unease in those who encounter one.

Evil doppelgangers are believed to have sinister or malevolent intentions, often trying to harm or cause misfortune to their counterpart. These entities may have originated from various folklore and mythologies as a reflection of a person’s darker side or a foreboding element in their lives.

Characteristics of Evil Doppelgangers

There are several attributes that set evil doppelgangers apart from their benign counterparts:

• Malevolent intent: These doppelgangers aim to cause harm, misfortune or even the death of their counterparts.
• Appearance: While mostly identical to the person they represent, an evil doppelganger may have subtle differences. For example, they might be seen with inverted clothes or sinister facial expressions.
• Supernatural abilities: Evil doppelgangers may possess unnatural powers such as shapeshifting or the ability to manipulate the person they resemble.

Omens and Superstitions

In various cultures, doppelgangers have been associated with ill omens or superstitions:

Culture	Belief
German	Doppelgängers are negative omens, signaling an impending tragedy or death.
Norse	Vardøger, a type of doppelgänger spirit, is believed to arrive at a location before the person it resembles, often causing confusion and anxiety.
Irish	Seeing a doppelgänger (fetch) is considered bad luck and a potential death omen.

Doppelgangers have long been associated with dark entities, and their presence in folklore and mythology varies depending on cultural perspectives.

Negative Energy

Many believe that doppelgangers often carry negative energy, representing the darker aspects of an individual. These entities may be attracted to people who exhibit intense emotions or are going through challenging times in their lives.

Some cultures attribute this negative energy to doppelgangers’ ability to cause misfortune, accidents, or illnesses when they interact with their human counterparts. The belief is that the mere sight of a doppelganger can be an omen of bad luck, leading to the victim’s doom.

Slavic Domovoi

The Slavic Domovoi is an example of such an ominous entity present in Slavic folklore. This household spirit is said to have the ability to transform itself into the homeowner or a family member. While generally benevolent in nature, the Domovoi can become malevolent when provoked or neglected by the family it protects.

When angered, the Domovoi may take on the appearance of a family member to cause harm or misfortune. In this case, it acts as a doppelganger by assuming the identity of a person, carrying negative energy and exposing the darker side of human nature.

The concept of evil doppelgangers and the omens tied to them serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of human nature and the importance of staying vigilant in the face of uncertainty.

Famous Doppelganger Examples

Doppelgangers have long been a source of fascination, transcending time and culture. These uncanny resemblances can be found in historical figures, fictional characters, and even among celebrities and public figures.

Fictional Characters

In literature and film, doppelgangers often appear as a means to explore themes of identity, duality, and the supernatural.

Examples include the dual roles played by actor Jeremy Irons in the 1988 film Dead Ringers and the character of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1886 novella, Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Celebrity Lookalikes

Celebrity doppelgangers are a common phenomenon, with some individuals bearing a striking resemblance to well-known stars. Examples of celebrity lookalikes include:

• Emma Watson — Kari Lewis, who has the internet doing a double-take thanks to her amazing Emma Watson cosplays
• Mila Kunis and Sarah Hyland
• Henry Cavill and Matt Bomer
• Katy Perry and Zooey Deschanel

Unexplained Cases

There are also inexplicable doppelganger encounters that defy logical explanation. Some examples of such encounters include:

• Philippines

In 2008, a woman named Emily Sagalis was working as a nurse in a hospital in Manila, Philippines when she saw her own doppelganger at work.

She was shocked to see her exact double wearing the same uniform as her and walking down the hallway. Emily’s colleagues were equally surprised when they saw the two women standing next to each other. Emily’s doppelganger disappeared after a few seconds and was never seen again.

• England

In 2015, a man named Neil Richardson from England was shocked to find his doppelganger in a pub in Ireland while he was on vacation with his wife. The two men looked so similar that they could have been twins, but they had never met before. They even had the same hairstyle and glasses.

Examples in World Cultures

European Folklore

Doppelgangers, or doubles, have long been a part of European folklore. In these stories, doppelgangers are often seen as harbingers of bad luck or misfortune.

For instance, in Germanic tales, a doppelganger, called the “Doppelgänger” or “Dubblegänger,” is an entity that resembles a living person, sometimes representing their darker aspects.

Norse Mythology

In Norse mythology, the concept of a doppelganger can be found in the story of Loki’s shape-shifting abilities.

In some tales, Loki’s power allowed him to take on the appearance of other gods or mortals, causing confusion and mischief. This can be seen as an early example of the doppelganger theme in mythology.

African and Caribbean Tales

African and Caribbean cultures also have stories involving doppelganger figures. In some West African cultures, a spirit known as the “Ibilé” or “áwòrìndá” is considered the person’s double, often representing a balance between their positive and negative traits.

In Caribbean folklore, doppelganger-like figures can take on the form of “soucouyants,” shape-shifting witches said to prey on their victims.

Cultural Interpretations and Symbolism

Different cultures interpret the concept of doppelgangers in various ways.

• In some cases, doppelgangers serve as cautionary symbols of the consequences of one’s actions or decisions. For example, in a Scottish tale, a man discovers his doppelganger has committed terrible acts in his name, a warning of the potential consequences of his own choices.
• In other stories, doppelgangers represent portions of a person’s personality, hidden desires, or suppressed emotions. They can be seen as personifications of the intrinsic dual nature of humans, illustrating the capacity for both good and evil.

Doppelganger in Literature

Significance in Literature

Doppelgangers are a fascinating literary device that have been employed in various forms throughout history. They often serve as metaphors for the darker aspects of human nature, exploring themes of identity, duality, and self-discovery.

Role of Language in Shaping Doppelganger Narratives

The use of language is instrumental in shaping doppelganger narratives, as it can create shifts in perspective and mood that allow readers to perceive the character’s double in different ways, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

Themes and Symbolism

Doppelgangers in literature are often symbolic of internal conflicts and struggles within a character, such as guilt, insecurity, or temptation. They may also represent repressed desires, fears, or darker aspects of a person’s personality that are manifested as an external figure.

Classic Examples

There are numerous examples of doppelgangers in classic literature, with some of the most well-known being found in the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Fyodor Dostoyevsky.

• Edgar Allan Poe’s “William Wilson“

In this short story, the protagonist William Wilson encounters his double, who shares the same name and appearance. This doppelganger serves as a moral guardian, constantly interfering with Wilson’s attempts at misdeeds, ultimately leading to his demise.

• Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s “The Double“

This novel tells the story of Yakov Petrovich Golyadkin, a man tormented by a doppelganger who appears to be his exact replica but is more extroverted and confident. This double relentlessly pursues Golyadkin, leading to his increasing paranoia and eventual breakdown.

Examples in Gothic Literature

Gothic literature frequently explores themes of duality and darkness, making it a perfect genre for the use of doppelgangers. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein can be interpreted as a doppelganger tale, with the creature acting as a sinister reflection of its creator, Victor Frankenstein.

Examples in Modern Literature

Contemporary literature has seen a continued interest in doppelgangers, with authors such as Vladimir Nabokov, Paul Auster, and Haruki Murakami employing them in their works to explore themes of identity, self-reflection, and the nature of reality.

Examples in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature

Doppelgangers have also played a significant role in science fiction and fantasy literature, from clones and androids to parallel universes and alternate realities. Well-known examples include Philip K. Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? and Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Lathe of Heaven.

Doppelgangers in Music and Art

Doppelgangers also appear in the world of music and art, often to emphasize themes of self-exploration, reflection, or duality. A few instances include:

• The Double Elvis (1963) – Pop artist Andy Warhol’s painting depicting two images of Elvis Presley side by side, highlighting the theme of duplicity.
• David Bowie’s Outside (1995) – The album’s narrative and characters touch on themes of self and identity through doppelgangers and alternate personalities.

Doppelgangers in Modern Fiction

Contemporary literature often employs doppelganger characters to explore themes of identity, self-discovery, or moral conflict. Some examples include:

• 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami – A novel where doppelgangers play a significant role in the storyline, creating tension and driving the narrative.
• The Dark Half by Stephen King – A horror novel in which a writer’s alter ego comes to life and wreaks havoc, establishing a conflict between the protagonist’s two selves.

Doppelgangers in Social Media

With the rise of social media, doppelgangers have also gained prominence in the digital realm. The phenomenon of finding one’s “twin stranger” online, for example, has gone viral on multiple occasions.

Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram enable users to easily share their encounters with doppelgangers, often generating a sense of wonder and fascination.

Doppelgangers in Film and Television

Doppelgangers have long been a popular trope in film and television, providing intriguing narratives, thought-provoking themes, and memorable scenes.

Adaptations and Reimaginations in Contemporary Media

Modern interpretations of doppelgangers often stem from classic folklore and mythologies. Writers and directors use doppelgangers as a means of exploring themes such as identity, duality, and the dark side of human nature.

Examples of Famous TV Series

Doppelgangers have been featured prominently in various forms of media, capturing the imagination of audiences with their alluring and mysterious nature.

• Orphan Black (2013-2017): A sci-fi thriller in which the main character , Sarah Manning, discovers her doppelgangers are actually clones involved in a dangerous conspiracy.
• The Vampire Diaries (2009-2017): The series features several instances of doppelgangers, most notably the protagonist, Elena Gilbert, and her sinister doppelganger, Katherine Pierce.
• Twin Peaks (1990): In the surreal world of Twin Peaks, doppelgangers emerge from a mysterious realm known as the Black Lodge and often take on sinister qualities.
• Vertigo (1958) – Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film features a protagonist struggling with the apparent reappearance of a woman he loved, who turns out to be her doppelganger.
• Black Swan (2010) – Psychological thriller in which a ballerina encounters a seemingly identical rival dancer who may or may not be real.

Iconic Scenes

Some of the most memorable moments in television and film history feature doppelgangers in dramatic confrontations or shocking revelations.

For instance, the mirror scene in David Lynch’s Lost Highway delivers an unnerving doppelganger encounter. Equally haunting is the chilling appearance of Tilda Swinton’s doppelganger in the film Dead Ringers.

Character Development and Storytelling

Doppelgangers offer a unique opportunity for character development, as they force characters to confront their inner conflicts and reveal different facets of their personalities. In some cases, doppelgangers can even drive the narrative, resulting in complex storylines and intricately crafted plots.

Science and Psychology Behind Doppelgangers

Doppelgangers have been a subject of fascination and intrigue for ages. In this section, we delve into the science and psychology behind the phenomenon, exploring psychological perspectives, autoscopic phenomena, and theories by renowned psychologists.

Psychological Perspectives

The uncanny nature of doppelgangers can be linked to various psychological theories. Some scholars suggest that the experience of encountering one’s double might trigger an identity crisis and challenge the sense of self.

Others explore the phenomenon of heautoscopy, wherein a person perceives their doppelganger as an external, separate entity, often accompanied by a distorted sense of reality and distorted emotions.

Autoscopic Phenomena and Out-of-Body Experiences

Autoscopic phenomena, such as out-of-body experiences, play a crucial role in understanding doppelgangers. These occurrences involve a person seemingly viewing their physical body from an external perspective, providing a unique insight into the doppelganger experience.

Sigmund Freud’s Theories

Freud’s concept of the uncanny can be applied to the doppelganger phenomenon. According to Freud, encountering one’s double triggers a feeling of unease and discomfort, as it uncomfortably reminds the individual of their death and repressed subconscious thoughts, stirring fear and anxiety.

Carl Jung’s Theories

Jung’s analytical psychology offers another interpretation of the doppelganger experience.

A doppelganger might represent an individual’s shadow, a concept in Jungian psychology referring to the darker, hidden aspects of one’s personality. The appearance of one’s shadow self can trigger a crisis of identity and evoke a strong emotional response.

Hallucinations and Doppelgangers

In some cases, doppelganger encounters might be attributed to hallucinations, brought on by fatigue, stress, or other mental health factors. The brain, struggling to make sense of the situation, might generate a doppelganger as a way to cope with the unsettling experience.

Sometimes, the truth behind a doppelganger encounter may be rooted in the complex workings of our brains.

Scientific Explanations for Doppelganger Experiences

Doppelganger experiences, though fascinating, can usually be attributed to various scientific factors. This section explores the different reasons behind such occurrences.

Facial Recognition Errors

Our brain’s facial recognition system can sometimes make errors, causing us to misinterpret a stranger’s face as someone we know. Additionally, certain neurological disorders or malfunctions in the memory and perception systems can lead to doppelganger experiences.

Mental and Neurological Factors

Psychological factors such as stress, fatigue, or mental illnesses can contribute to the perception of doppelgangers. Neurological factors influencing the brain’s function, such as migraines, epilepsy, or brain lesions, may also contribute to these experiences.

Technological Simulations

Advances in technology have made it possible to create digital doppelgangers or deepfakes. These realistic simulations, often using artificial intelligence, can generate images and videos of individuals who appear strikingly similar to real people.

Bilateral Symmetry in Nature

The natural tendency for bilateral symmetry in living organisms can play a role in the existence of doppelgangers. As humans share many facial features and proportions, it is not uncommon for unrelated individuals to have similar appearances.

Genetics and Coincidence

Genetic factors can also be responsible for creating doppelgangers. Unrelated individuals may share common ancestors or genetic traits, leading to similar physical appearances. Additionally, simple coincidences can result in people looking alike.

Effects and Implications

Personal and Emotional Impact

Doppelgangers can cause confusion and emotional distress for both the person involved and those around them. Encountering a duplicate of oneself can lead to feelings of anxiety, uneasiness, and even paranoia.

For example, individuals may worry about their identity or personal safety, questioning the intentions of their doppelganger. Furthermore, friends and family may struggle to differentiate between the two, causing social tensions and misunderstandings.

Social and Cultural Consequences

In many cultures, doppelgangers are considered harbingers of bad luck, bearing supernatural or mystical implications. They’re often associated with misfortune or even death, causing fear and superstition among communities.

In literature and folklore, doppelgangers are used as symbols for inner conflicts, moral dilemmas, and the darker side of human nature. These stories help societies explore their collective consciousness and navigate complex emotions.

Impacts of Doppelgangers in Modern Times

In a digital age, the concept of the doppelganger has taken on new dimensions. With advances in technology, deepfakes and identity theft have become prevalent, causing widespread concern.

1. Deepfakes: The creation of realistic, digitally manipulated images or videos can be harmful, especially when misused for nefarious purposes or to spread misinformation.
2. Identity Theft: The theft of personal information can result in significant consequences for victims, including financial loss and emotional distress, making it essential for modern societies to mitigate these risks.

Overall, the various effects and implications of doppelgangers are multifaceted, shaped by personal experiences, cultural beliefs, and advancements in technology.

Pros of Doppelgangers

Doppelgangers have been a source of fascination and intrigue for centuries. They offer numerous benefits when it comes to exploring different aspects of human existence and understanding psychological and philosophical concepts.

Opportunities for Exploration

One of the most striking features of doppelgangers is their ability to open up new opportunities for exploration.

By encountering a double, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. This can manifest through various forms of literature, art, and even scientific research.

In literature, for example, stories of doppelgangers allow readers to explore themes like identity, human nature, and the complexities of the human psyche.

Doppelgangers often serve as a catalyst for characters to challenge their preconceived notions of self and reality, making for engaging and thought-provoking narratives.

Psychological and Philosophical Implications

Doppelgangers also play a significant role in understanding various psychological and philosophical concepts.

The phenomenon of the doppelganger can be seen as a reflection of the split between the conscious and unconscious mind, as depicted in famous work like Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “The Double.”

From a philosophical perspective, doppelgangers challenge the idea of identity and raise questions about the nature of selfhood. By presenting the possibility of multiple selves, they compel individuals to confront the nature of their own existence and wrestle with the complexities of being human.

Cons of Doppelgangers

Doppelgangers can have various negative effects and consequences, despite their intriguing nature. This section will discuss the cons of doppelgangers, focusing on their negative psychological effects, cultural appropriation, and stereotyping.

Negative Psychological Effects

Doppelgangers are known to create confusion and psychological distress for some individuals. Encountering a person who looks identical to oneself can lead to identity crises, as one may question their sense of self and uniqueness.

Additionally, assumptions of malicious intent or deception can arise, further exacerbating mental stress.

Cultural Appropriation

Another con of doppelgangers relates to cultural appropriation. Doppelgangers may intentionally or unintentionally imitate aspects of another person’s culture or background, leading to misinformation and disrespect.

However, it is crucial to differentiate between doppelgangers who adapt cultural elements out of admiration and those who exploit them for personal gains or mockery.

Stereotyping

The concept of doppelgangers can perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce essentialist thinking. People may wrongly assume that individuals who physically resemble each other share similar personality traits, values, and beliefs.

This can lead to the grouping of people based solely on appearance, promoting a superficial understanding of human beings and potentially denying their individuality.

Pros	Cons
Enhance storytelling in literature and films by adding intrigue and suspense.	Can lead to cases of mistaken identity in real life, causing confusion and distress.
Provide opportunities in entertainment industry, such as impersonators or body doubles.	Criminal doppelgangers may use resemblance to commit fraud, identity theft, or other crimes.
Encourage curiosity and research into genetics, human biology, and appearance-based perception.	May trigger psychological phenomena like Capgras syndrome, where individuals believe their loved ones have been replaced by identical imposters.

Pro Tip: Keep an open mind when exploring the world of doppelgangers; sometimes, fact can be stranger than fiction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The concept of doppelgangers has been prevalent in different cultures, reflecting fears, desires, and themes such as identity and self-discovery.

• Doppelgangers in literature and film serve to demonstrate how characters confront their darker selves, give in to temptation, or reveal hidden aspects of their personalities.
• In folklore, they may be viewed as warnings, omens, or supernatural entities that deceive and manipulate.
• As a cultural and artistic concept, doppelgangers challenge us to confront our own identities and acknowledge the complexities of human nature. They can serve as tools for self-reflection and personal growth, as well as a means to spark thought-provoking discussions about the human experience.
• In applied contexts such as psychology, understanding doppelgangers can shed light on issues like self-perception and self-acceptance.
• In the paranormal and supernatural realms, they continue to captivate our collective imagination.

Overall, doppelgangers provide valuable opportunities for exploration and understanding in various domains. While they may be unnerving to encounter in real life, their presence in stories and conceptual examinations helps elucidate many intriguing aspects of human existence and consciousness.