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Who am I? Beyond "I think, therefore I am"
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|October 13, 2011
Summary
Achieving genuine self-knowledge is challenging, as experts explore the complexities of understanding oneself. The ongoing pursuit of self-knowledge actively shapes our personal identity.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Mind
- Cognitive Science
- Social Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Ethics
Background:
- The question of "Who am I?" is a fundamental philosophical and psychological inquiry.
- Genuine self-knowledge is often considered difficult to attain due to inherent complexities in self-perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the inherent difficulties in achieving authentic self-knowledge.
- To explore the dynamic relationship between the pursuit of self-knowledge and the construction of personal identity.
Main Methods:
- A moderated discussion featuring experts from diverse fields including neuro-philosophy, cognitive science, social psychology, and ethics.
- Analysis of philosophical and scientific perspectives on self-awareness and identity formation.
Main Results:
- The study highlights significant challenges in obtaining complete and objective self-understanding.
- It suggests that the active process of seeking self-knowledge influences and modifies the self.
Conclusions:
- True self-knowledge remains an elusive goal, marked by inherent complexities.
- The continuous pursuit of understanding oneself is a crucial element in the ongoing process of self-creation and identity development.
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