David Hume: The Concept Of Self And Personal Identity

What is Personal Identity?

The concept of self and personal identity is perceived differently by almost everyone, and nobody is to say who is right or wrong. The two ancient philosophers that paved the way regarding human understanding and human nature are John Locke and David Hume. Locke believes what constitutes identity in some objects is different in others. Different things require a specific criteria for determining its self and personal identity. Hume explores the conception of personal identity, memory, and cause and effect. He explains the reasoning why we relate objects to certain conceptions as well as to why we think causes are linked to effects. Also, Hume does not agree with Locke’s theory about experiences determining your self and personal identity. I personally do agree with Locke’s theory because I have had some experiences in my life that I believe have shaped my true self and personal identity. One of John Locke’s main concepts or theory

Hume argues that this creates a more consistent empiricism compared to others. He first separates the distinctions of ideas and impressions. Ideas come secondary to impressions, but they are a main component of the human mind. Impressions are considered to all of your feelings and your sensations as well as passions; this is why Hume believes it is superior to ideas because it has more meaning and power. He also thinks there is a difference between complex and simple impressions and ideas. Simple impressions or ideas mean you cannot see or differentiate the distinction of color. Complex impressions or ideas are viewing an object and being able to examine it and break it down into several parts. Simple ideas all originally come from simple expressions, but complex ones do not and they sometimes need to be questioned and thought