Author’s Abstract
- In the examination of the concept of personal identity, this thesis concentrates upon the central divide between complex and simple accounts.
- The opposing theories have been evaluated with respect to their ability to produce a concept of persons which will fulfil the role of a forensic1 being. Thus, the criticisms suggested are not made solely in consideration of the coherence of supportive arguments but also on the ability to provide accurate accounts of a person as a moral agent: whether value and responsibility are sufficiently met by the concept and whether the resulting person can be objectively and reliably identified.
- The thesis
- Begins with an explanation of the historical roots of the debate, considering the originators of the simple view2 in their criticism of Locke's conception of personal identity.
- It then moves on to examine the modern version of the simple view3, explaining its arguments and providing a critique.
- Finally, modifications to the modern simple view4 are suggested, pointing the way to a more satisfactory debate within personal identity theory, whilst showing the central epistemological role that such a debate has.
Comment:
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