Overview
This lecture explores the philosophical question of identity, using the Ship of Theseus paradox to illustrate the complexities of defining what makes something or someone the same over time.
The Question of Identity
- The question "Who am I?" has puzzled thinkers from ancient philosophers to modern artists.
- Identity is difficult to define due to its complex and changing nature over time.
The Persistence of Identity
- Challenges in defining identity include changes across time, physical changes, and changes in thoughts or actions.
- Philosophers debate which aspects define "I": physical body, feelings, thoughts, actions, or something else.
The Ship of Theseus Paradox
- Plutarch’s Ship of Theseus story illustrates the problem of identity persistence.
- Over 1,000 years, every part of Theseus’s ship was replaced, raising the question: is it still the same ship?
- Some argue gradual change preserves identity, so original and current ships are numerically identical.
- Others claim unique qualities (e.g., Theseus himself) are essential, so the ships are not qualitatively identical.
- If old parts are rebuilt into another ship, which is the real Ship of Theseus? The replacement or the reconstruction?
Identity and the Self
- Like the Ship of Theseus, people are collections of constantly changing parts, yet somehow maintain a sense of sameness.
- The persistence of personal identity remains a philosophical paradox.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Identity — The qualities, beliefs, or physical traits that make a person or thing recognizable as distinct.
- Persistence of Identity — The continuity of an entity's identity over time despite changes.
- Numerical Identity — Being one and the same thing across time.
- Qualitative Identity — Sharing the same properties or qualities, not necessarily being the same object.
- Ship of Theseus — A thought experiment demonstrating the paradox of identity persistence.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on the question "Who am I?" and consider what aspects contribute to your personal identity.
- Read more about philosophical paradoxes related to identity.