According to William James, the self is divided into which two categories?

William James posits that the self can be understood through the framework of the "I" and the "Me." The "I" refers to the observing self, the subjective aspect of the self that experiences and acts. This is the self that is aware of its thoughts, feelings, and actions in the moment—essentially, it is the essence of consciousness. On the other hand, the "Me" represents the self that is observed—this includes the aspects of one's identity such as social roles, physical attributes, and personal history. The "Me" encompasses the experiences and characteristics that one can reflect upon and that shape how an individual perceives themselves in relation to the world.

Understanding this division highlights the complexity of self-perception: while the "I" is constantly evolving through experience, the "Me" can represent a more static view based on societal perceptions and self-reflection. By examining these two categories, one gains insights into the dynamic interplay between one’s internal experiences and external identity. This perspective laid the groundwork for future psychological theories about self-concept and identity.