Does a "True Self" Exist?

[robvalue]

I think one reason people believe in things like "souls" is because they aren't comfortable with the idea that it might not be true. Such a reality would seem dead and meaningless to them.

But the thing is, reality doesn't depend on emotions. Either we have a soul, or we don't. And since no one can even define what it is, let alone demonstrate it's anything more than our imagination and projection, there's no reason to think there is such a thing.

If you're interested in the truth of things, you should make as few assumptions as possible. Humans having "a soul" is an assumption. Is it justified? Is it necessary? Can you coherently define it as something real rather than abstract, and if so, can you demonstrate in any way the existence of this thing?

Hint: please avoid the reflexive tu quoque fallacy, such as "Well you can't measure emotions".