How is my unconscious mind like a computer?

The unconscious mind is neutral. It is neither “on your side” nor “against you.” It is often said that the unconscious mind functions much like a computer, carrying out its duties in accordance with the information that is loaded into it. Most of its programs are beneficial, or at least have a positive or utilitarian aspect. For instance, it’s a good thing that you don’t have to think consciously to control your respiration. Some of its programs have both positive and negative implications. For example, it’s also good that, when we are in a life-threatening situation, we don’t have to activate with conscious thought all the bodily changes that we need to occur to save ourselves. But, this protection impulse of the unconscious mind can go too far and cause problems. Finally, each of us has many other programs, as well, that we have learned, developed, or had imprinted upon us in the course of living our lives and coming under the influence of parents, schools, peers, the media, and other authority figures. They’re unique to us.