A collective mental state is both distinct from and contains other mental states of self-aware individuals. The collective mental state forms the basis for individual reflection, juxtaposed with the collective state, that leads to realizations about emotions, states of being, and individuality.
A unified mental state exists independently of each individual's own thoughts but is composed of those thoughts. It provides the basis for self-reflection, contrasting with the collective state, which allows individuals to understand their feelings, states of being, and unique identities.