We can mistakenly identify the pleasure of the ego for the mind's healthy self-elevation. A judgment is an interpretation. It often occurs automatically from our subconscious. Judgment usually happens in accordance with our childhood pre-programming. It also occurs as attack through conscious awareness and choice.
Judgment takes place by ego intervention.
Often, significant others in our life set the criteria when to judge. Our tape is always ready to run. It may contain the instructions that blur the distinction between expansion of the self through pleasure, and familiar ego satisfaction confusing pain with pleasure. A Course in Miracles suggests that studying the ego is actually a mistake. The study itself gives the ego a sense of importance as it recognizes the mind giving it recognition and attention.