I'm wondering if the workings of a mind can be observed from within. Not in terms of behaviour, but more so in terms of process and function.
Among many subjects, might this yield any results of value?
The closest thing I can think of is meditation and mindfulness. Simply observing the mind and reporting results.
Perhaps more so individually than what may be qualitatively associated with that of the masses.
As I grow older I notice subtleties of which I had been completely oblivious years before. These subtleties are influential as feedback which improve behavioral adaptation and enhance my personal experience.
A few concrete examples.
I’m sure everyone interested in behavioral studies is aware of the story of the kid with and the marshmallow rewards. Similarly I have noticed anticipation to be a great distraction to the consistency of resolve. By removing all self references toward ideal outcome, resolve becomes infinite, and unchallenged by incentivized results. So much more so I could care less about the “marshmallow”. Accumulating them in mass only to give them away without concern. Besides, consider how poorly a job you might have done of a worthy task if you cared nothing for marshmallows to begin with.
How about over reactions? Often when one feels excited toward a circumstance, one rushes into action with enthusiasm. Make a habit of first taking three deep breaths. In the space of three deep breaths it is amazing how much more perspective and insight grows than one presumes by their immediate reaction.
And then there is the matter of qualitative answers themselves. Over time I have found that my first answer is usually rubbish. My second answer is often not quite complete. The third answer, often has more exactness and relevance than initial consideration would allow.
All of this comes by reflection and self reservation.
You could read the according Wikipedia page for orientation:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philosophy_of_mind
...or jump directly into some famous answer, e.g.: