Ship of Theseus

The Ship of Theseus is a replacement paradox also known as Theseus's paradox.

Human identity

Beyond applications in modern technology, with the increasing potential of cosmetic surgery, organ transplants, genetic engineering and even cloning to change the shape of a human being, the Ship of Theseus paradox may increasingly apply to ourselves as well. At which point will medical alterations of a human being start to affect its identity? Philosophers like Descartes have postulated, "I think, therefore I am" (cogito ergo sum), which in this context can be regarded as an assertion that the human mind and consciousness is what is shaping our identity. Under this premise, a clone, while having the same physical shape down to genetic level, will not be the same person. Only surgical alterations of the human brain could affect our identity in this regard (personality).

Related Topics:
Cosmetic surgery - Organ transplant - Genetic engineering - Cloning - Descartes - Cogito ergo sum

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

One might argue, however, that in light of the tendency of people to assess things and persons based upon their physical appearance, the everyday life understanding of human identity is going further. If "body and mind" are both equal aspects of human identity, the intentional, temporary or permanent change of the former that is common in modern society can be regarded as a change of identity already.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~