crams
Intro to Philosophy
Table of Contents
Unit 6 Overview: Metaphysics
6.1 Substance
6.2 Self and Identity
6.3 Cosmology and the Existence of God
6.4 Free Will

Personal identity is a complex philosophical concept that explores how we maintain a sense of self over time. This topic delves into various theories and challenges surrounding identity, from persistence to mind-body relationships. It examines how physical and psychological changes impact our understanding of who we are.

The chapter explores different perspectives on personal identity, including Western and Eastern concepts, secular theories, and the mind-body problem. It challenges us to consider how our sense of self is shaped by factors like consciousness, social interactions, and cultural context.

The Nature of Self and Identity

Persistence and identity challenges

  • Persistence maintains that a person remains the same individual over time despite physical and psychological changes
    • Challenges the notion of a fixed, unchanging self
    • Raises questions about what constitutes personal identity and how it can be maintained amidst change
  • The Ship of Theseus thought experiment illustrates the problem of persistence
    • Gradual replacement of a ship's components (planks, masts) over time
    • Questions whether the ship remains the same object despite all components being replaced
    • Analogous to the persistence of self despite changes in physical body and psychological traits
  • Psychological continuity theory emphasizes the continuity of memories, beliefs, and personality traits as the basis for personal identity
    • Allows for gradual changes in the self while maintaining identity through the continuity of mental states
    • Challenges arise in cases of memory loss or drastic personality changes (amnesia, brain injury)
  • Biological continuity theory focuses on the continuity of the physical body as the basis for personal identity
    • Emphasizes the importance of the body and brain in maintaining identity
    • Challenges arise in hypothetical cases of brain transplants or split-brain patients (corpus callosotomy)

Western vs Eastern self concepts

  • Western theological perspective rooted in Judeo-Christian tradition believes in an immortal soul distinct from the physical body
    • The soul is seen as the essence of a person's identity and the source of continuity
    • Continuity of the soul ensures personal identity in the afterlife (heaven, hell)
  • Eastern theological perspective in Buddhism denies the existence of a permanent, unchanging self (anatta doctrine)
    • Identity is viewed as a series of constantly changing physical and mental states (five aggregates)
    • Emphasis on the impermanence of the self and the illusion of a fixed identity
    • Goal is to achieve liberation (nirvana) from the cycle of rebirth by realizing the true nature of the self
  • Hinduism posits the existence of an eternal, unchanging essence of a person (atman)
    • Atman is distinct from the temporary, changing physical and mental states
    • Reincarnation: the atman persists across multiple lifetimes until it achieves moksha (liberation)
    • Emphasis on the realization of the true self and its unity with the universal consciousness (Brahman)

Secular theories of self-identity

  • Narrative theory of identity (Ricoeur, MacIntyre) posits that identity is constructed through the stories we tell about ourselves
    • Coherence and continuity of the narrative define personal identity
    • Emphasizes the role of language and social context in shaping identity (cultural narratives, family stories)
  • Relational theory of identity (Taylor, Gilligan) emphasizes the importance of relationships and social roles in forming identity
    • Identity is shaped through interactions with others and the recognition we receive
    • Challenges the notion of an autonomous, independent self in favor of an interdependent, socially constituted self
  • Postmodern theories of identity (Foucault, Butler) view identity as a social construct shaped by power structures and discourse
    • Rejects the idea of a fixed, essential self in favor of fluid and multiple identities
    • Emphasizes the role of language, social norms, and power relations in shaping identity (gender, race, sexuality)
    • Encourages the deconstruction and subversion of dominant identity categories

Self-concept and social identity

  • Self-concept refers to an individual's overall understanding and perception of themselves
    • Includes beliefs, values, and attitudes that shape one's identity
    • Influenced by personal experiences, social interactions, and cultural context
  • Social identity theory explores how group memberships contribute to an individual's sense of self
    • Emphasizes the importance of belonging to social groups in shaping identity
    • Examines how individuals categorize themselves and others based on group affiliations
  • Authenticity in self-expression relates to the alignment between one's internal sense of self and external behavior
    • Raises questions about the nature of "true" self and the influence of social pressures on identity

Mind, Body, and Personal Identity

Mind-body problem implications

  • The mind-body problem questions how the immaterial mind interacts with the physical body
    • Dualism (Descartes) maintains that mind and body are distinct substances
      1. Interactionism: the mind and body causally influence each other
      2. Challenges in explaining the mechanism of interaction (pineal gland)
      3. Allows for the possibility of disembodied existence (soul)
    • Materialism (Identity theory, Eliminative materialism) asserts that only physical matter exists
      1. The mind is a product of the brain and mental states are reducible to brain states
      2. Eliminative materialism goes further and denies the existence of mental states altogether
      3. Challenges in explaining subjective experience and qualia (what it feels like)
  • Implications for personal identity depend on the view of the mind-body relationship
    • If the mind and body are distinct (dualism), personal identity may reside in the mind or soul
      • Allows for the persistence of identity in cases of memory loss or brain damage
      • Raises questions about the continuity of identity in disembodied states (afterlife)
    • If the mind is reducible to the brain (materialism), personal identity is tied to the continuity of brain states
      • Challenges arise in hypothetical cases of brain transplants or split-brain patients
      • Raises questions about the persistence of identity in cases of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's)
      • Emphasizes the importance of the physical brain in maintaining personal identity
  • Consciousness and self-awareness play crucial roles in personal identity
    • Consciousness refers to the subjective experience of being aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and surroundings
    • Self-awareness involves the ability to reflect on one's own mental states and recognize oneself as a distinct entity
  • Embodiment theory emphasizes the role of the physical body in shaping consciousness and identity
    • Challenges the notion of a disembodied mind by highlighting the interconnectedness of bodily experiences and cognitive processes
  • Personal autonomy relates to an individual's ability to make decisions and act independently
    • Raises questions about the extent to which identity is shaped by personal choices versus external influences

Key Terms to Review (27)

Dualism: Dualism is a philosophical view that reality is fundamentally composed of two distinct and irreducible substances or principles, such as mind and matter, or body and soul. This concept is central to the understanding of contemporary philosophy, the nature of substance, and the self and identity.
Nirvana: Nirvana is a key concept in Indian philosophy, particularly in the Buddhist tradition, that refers to a state of being free from suffering, desire, and the cycle of rebirth. It represents the ultimate goal and liberation from the human condition.
Atman: Atman is the concept in Hinduism and other Indian philosophical traditions that refers to the individual's true self, soul, or essence. It is considered the eternal, unchanging spiritual core of a person that is ultimately connected to the universal divine consciousness known as Brahman.
Moksha: Moksha is a key concept in Indian philosophy, referring to the ultimate liberation or freedom from the cycle of rebirth and suffering. It represents the highest spiritual goal and the attainment of enlightenment or self-realization.
Mind-Body Problem: The mind-body problem is a philosophical conundrum that explores the relationship between the mind, or consciousness, and the physical body. It examines the fundamental question of how mental states, such as thoughts, emotions, and sensations, can interact with and influence the physical, material world.
Brahman: Brahman is the ultimate, supreme, and absolute reality in Hinduism. It is the underlying, unifying substance that is the source and basis of all existence, encompassing all aspects of the universe and the divine essence present in all things.
Interactionism: Interactionism is a sociological perspective that emphasizes the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between individuals and their social environment. It focuses on how people construct and interpret meaning through their interactions and the ways in which these interactions shape their sense of self and identity.
Ship of Theseus: The Ship of Theseus is a thought experiment that explores the nature of identity and whether an object that has had all of its components replaced remains the same object. The thought experiment is named after the ancient Greek hero Theseus, who sailed a ship that had all of its parts gradually replaced over time.
Biological Continuity Theory: The biological continuity theory is a philosophical concept that suggests personal identity is maintained through the continuous, uninterrupted existence of a person's physical body and brain. It posits that an individual's sense of self is grounded in the biological and physiological processes that sustain their living organism over time.
Relational Theory: Relational theory is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes the fundamental interconnectedness and interdependence of all things. It posits that the self and identity are not isolated, autonomous entities, but rather are shaped and defined through our relationships and interactions with others.
Psychological Continuity Theory: Psychological continuity theory is a philosophical concept that defines personal identity over time. It posits that a person's identity is maintained through a continuous, connected stream of psychological states, such as memories, beliefs, desires, and personality traits, rather than a fixed, unchanging essence.
Identity Theory: Identity theory is a philosophical approach that posits the mind and the body are one and the same, with mental states and processes being identical to physical states and processes in the brain. It suggests that our sense of self, or personal identity, arises from the physical and neurological mechanisms that make up the human mind.
Personal Autonomy: Personal autonomy refers to an individual's capacity for self-governance, self-direction, and the ability to make decisions and choices that align with one's own values, beliefs, and desires. It is a fundamental aspect of human agency and freedom of will.
Consciousness: Consciousness refers to the state of being aware of one's surroundings, thoughts, emotions, and sensations. It is the subjective experience of the internal and external world, and is central to the understanding of the self and one's place in the universe.
Authenticity: Authenticity refers to the state of being true to one's own personality, spirit, or character, without pretense or facade. It is a concept that is central to discussions of self and identity, as well as the philosophical critique of Enlightenment theories of the self.
Materialism: Materialism is the philosophical view that the only thing that exists is matter or physical substance. It holds that all phenomena, including mental states and consciousness, can be explained in terms of material or physical processes, and that there is no immaterial or spiritual aspect to reality.
Self-Concept: Self-concept is an individual's perception and understanding of their own identity, abilities, and place in the world. It is a complex and multifaceted construct that encompasses how a person views themselves physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively.
Persistence: Persistence refers to the quality of continuing steadfastly, despite obstacles or difficulties. It is the ability to maintain a course of action, thought, or belief over time, even in the face of opposition or setbacks.
Self-Awareness: Self-awareness is the conscious knowledge and understanding of one's own thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and personality. It is a fundamental aspect of human consciousness that allows individuals to reflect on their own experiences, values, and place in the world.
Anatta: Anatta is the Buddhist concept of non-self or the absence of a permanent, unchanging self or soul. It is one of the three fundamental characteristics of existence, along with impermanence (anicca) and suffering (dukkha).
Five Aggregates: The five aggregates, or skandhas, are the foundational Buddhist teaching that describes the five elements that make up human experience and the self. These five elements are the building blocks of our perceived reality and the basis for understanding the nature of consciousness and the self.
Qualia: Qualia refers to the subjective, first-person experiences of conscious awareness. It encompasses the qualitative, phenomenological aspects of our mental states, such as the felt sensations, perceptions, emotions, and thoughts that make up our inner, subjective experience of the world.
Postmodern Theories: Postmodern theories are a philosophical and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 20th century, challenging traditional notions of truth, knowledge, and the self. These theories reject the idea of a single, universal truth and instead emphasize the plurality of perspectives, the importance of context, and the fluidity of identity and meaning.
Embodiment: Embodiment refers to the idea that the mind and body are inextricably linked, and that our physical experiences and interactions with the world shape our thoughts, emotions, and sense of self. It challenges the traditional Cartesian mind-body dualism that separates the mind and body as distinct entities.
Social Identity: Social identity refers to the part of an individual's self-concept that derives from their membership in social groups, as well as the emotional and evaluative significance attached to that membership. It is a key aspect of how people perceive themselves and others within the context of their social interactions and relationships.
Narrative Theory: Narrative theory is a framework for understanding how individuals construct and interpret their sense of self and identity through the stories they tell about their experiences. It explores the role of narrative in shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it.
Eliminative Materialism: Eliminative materialism is a philosophical position that rejects the existence of mental states and propositional attitudes, such as beliefs, desires, and intentions, in favor of a purely physical, neurological account of the mind. It holds that our commonsense psychological concepts do not refer to real phenomena and should be eliminated from our scientific understanding of the world.