Reflexive monism maintains that, in its evolution from some primal undifferentiated state, the universe differentiates into distinguishable physical entities, at least some of which have the potential for conscious experience, such as human beings. While remaining embedded within and dependent on the surrounding universe and composed of the same fundamental stuff, each human, equipped with perceptual and cognitive systems, has an individual perspective on, or view of, the rest of the universe and themself.
Self-referential monism posits that, in its development from a fundamental, undifferentiated state, the universe diverges into discernible physical entities, at least some of which have the capacity for conscious awareness, such as human beings. While remaining connected to and reliant on the surrounding environment and composed of the same basic substance, each individual, equipped with sensory and cognitive mechanisms, possesses a unique viewpoint or perception of the rest of the universe and themselves.