Arguments Against Personal Identity: Crash Course Philosophy

The video explores the concept of personal identity, challenging the notion of a fixed self. It introduces David Hume's bundle theory, which suggests that the self is an ever-changing collection of impressions. Derek Parfit's thought experiment further questions identity through a hypothetical space travel scenario. Parfit argues for psychological connectedness over time, impacting how we view promises and responsibilities. The discussion highlights the fluidity of identity and its implications on personal relationships and commitments.

What does David Hume argue about the concept of the self?

• It is determined by our genetic makeup.

• It is defined by our relationships with others.

• It is a fixed entity from birth to death.

• It is an illusion and does not persist over time.

According to the body theory, what maintains personal identity over time?

• The emotions we experience.

• The continuity of memories.

• The physical body remaining the same.

• The roles we play in society.

What is the main problem with John Locke's memory theory?

• It ignores the role of the body.

• It does not account for changes in personality.

• It assumes memories are always accurate.

• It relies too heavily on social interactions.

In Parfit's thought experiment, what happens when a person is recreated on Mars?

• The person loses all memories.

• A new being is created with the same memories.

• The original person travels to Mars.

• The person becomes a different species.

How does Parfit describe the continuity of personal identity?

• As a collection of social roles.

• As a fixed chain of events.

• As a constant physical presence.

• As a series of psychological connections.

According to Parfit, how should we view long-term commitments like marriage?

• As unbreakable promises.

• As temporary agreements with renewal options.

• As irrelevant due to changing identities.

• As fixed contracts regardless of change.

What determines the degree of responsibility for past actions, according to Parfit?

• The legal system.

• The physical resemblance to past selves.

• The psychological connection to past selves.

• The societal norms at the time.