Critique of Physicalism’s Response to the Problem of Bodily Change in the Personal Identity Argument

Document Type : Research

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Human Sciences Philosophy, Research Institute of Hawzah and University, Qom. Iran.

Abstract

The distinction between the soul, mind, and body, or brain, is a key issue in anthropology that has significant implications for both philosophical and religious knowledge. One of the arguments for substance dualism is the "personal identity argument," which has been addressed by both Islamic and Western philosophers. In contrast, physicists have sought to critique this argument and present a materialistic view of the continuity of the soul throughout life. They point to the stability of brain neurons, the unity of the body or brain's structure and function, or the continuous spatio-temporal existence of the body as the basis for personal identity. This article first strengthens the empirical foundation of the argument using new findings in molecular biology and neuroscience. Then, by applying phenomenology to personal identity and utilizing philosophical and analytical principles (such as distinguishing between real and nominal unity and between doubt and definition), it attempts to answer the criticisms of physicalism.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Islamic Philosophical Doctrines
Volume 18, Issue 33 - Serial Number 33
December 2023
Pages 149-178

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