Can You Reflect Over Your Own Reflections?

Of course. Try it now. Reflect on what you had for breakfast today (maybe it was oatmeal). Now reflect on why you are reflecting on your breakfast (probably it was because I suggested it). You are reflecting on your reflection. Here's another example: reflect about the last time you made a choice (perhaps it was the choice to have a look at this blog). Now, reflect as to whether it was a good choice. Again, you are reflecting about your reflection.

In this latter example, however, your ‘second-level reflection’ enables you to judge whether your first level action (the choice) was done well or badly, and gives you a chance to be able to do it better in the future. You can go to a higher level again, by reflecting on what makes a choice a good choice.

Second-level reflection is important because it enables us to improve our thinking. Philosophy often involves second-level reflection.