Exploring the Concept of Individuality and Cloning: What Sets Us Apart?

  • Thread starter adx24001
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In summary, the clone and yourself would start having different experiences from the moment it was created, and this would be what makes the two of you different even if you both had the same memories from the point of creation.
  • #1
adx24001
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I had this really odd thought. If you cloned yourself and you have identical memory with the clone, the clone is not you and he/she is not you, that makes the clone unique. What identifies or separates the two?

What I'm getting at is this. What is it that makes you and the clone separate, say for example you could switch off and become the clone or vice versa. Is there a unique 'signature' somewhere ? Obviously the thought of 2 people 'connected', would create some sort of problem, you can't see with four eyes sort of thing?

Where would you start looking and what for?

I know this sounds weird but have a go!
 
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  • #2
The clone and yourself would start having different experiences from the moment it was created, and this would be what makes the two of you different even if you both had the same memories from the point of creation.

There is a lot of research of identical twins that in part tries to answer this question. Is it nature or nurture that makes us who we are? At this point it would seem that both contribute.
 
  • #3
I think a common misunderstanding of clones is that they are full grown and/or have memories from the original.
 
  • #4
What you propose is purely fiction so without sufficient parameters for us to follow supplied by you then we have no way to hypothetically answer your question. And since those parameters only exist in your mind, only your mind can come up with something that would be acceptable to you.

The only thing we have in the real world would be identical twins, and they are their own person with their own memory from the day they are born.
 
  • #5
It's not fiction. It's not known. Let me explain what I mean.

http://www.adamcanfixyourcomputer.co.uk/images/image1.jpg [Broken]

Fig 1 - You are the line

Fig 2 - You are cloned - essentially a copy nothing else

Fig 3 - You and the clone are joined by together by something and are able to see feel what they other person does.

Imagine also, if your line ran out and that you could 'jump' into the clones line and still be the same.

What would it be that could connect them? What is this unknown item that makes them individual.
 
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  • #6
The answer is 42. Just in case you were wondering.

Another answer is this - read up on twin studies. Environment does affect behaviors in different ways when two "clones" (aka monozygotic twins) grow up living apart and unaware of each other. Others behaviors and wonts appear to be largely genetic. That was Evo's point.

And what the heck is figure #3 - a detour? A new reality? I'm confused.
 
  • #7
I can't believe how difficult it is to explain. Try this -
In a reality where there is human cloning etc. The clones are frozen until the person that needs it dies. His/Her mind can be transferred and he would wake up as him. At the moment we are skirting around the idea of physical copying and identity. I mean the above where the person is the same as before. So what would you need to do? Re-program the brain? I am trying to find out what it is that separates you from a clone in our understanding then apply a new idea (theory) to it and make the clones Identical so that he/she can be copied to a clone and wake up the same. Is this any clearer?

Watch the "6th Day" film and it might help.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0216216/
 

1. How is individuality defined?

Individuality is defined as the unique combination of characteristics and traits that make a person or object distinct from others.

2. Is individuality determined by genetics or environment?

Individuality is a complex mix of both genetics and environment. While certain traits may be inherited, experiences and environmental factors also play a significant role in shaping one's individuality.

3. Can individuality change over time?

Yes, individuality can change over time as people grow and experience new things. Factors such as personal growth, relationships, and life events can all influence and shape one's individuality.

4. How is individuality studied in scientific research?

Individuality is studied through various scientific methods, such as genetic studies, behavioral observations, and psychological assessments. Researchers also use statistical analyses to identify patterns and differences in individual traits.

5. Can individuality be measured or quantified?

While individuality is a complex and subjective concept, researchers have developed various measures and scales to assess different aspects of individuality, such as personality, creativity, and intelligence. However, these measures are not absolute and can only provide a limited understanding of an individual's unique characteristics.

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