Theseus' ship - what is your view?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the philosophical paradox known as Theseus' Ship, which questions the identity of an object when all its components are replaced over time. Participants explore the implications of identity, using analogies such as a car and a pair of socks to illustrate their points. Key contributors reference Aristotle's concepts of form and substance, emphasizing that the essence of an object may change with its parts. The conversation ultimately leads to a metaphysical inquiry about the nature of self and existence, suggesting that understanding identity requires deeper contemplation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of philosophical concepts such as identity and metaphysics.
  • Familiarity with Aristotle's theories on form and substance.
  • Knowledge of analogical reasoning in philosophical discourse.
  • Basic comprehension of the implications of change on identity.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Aristotle's theories on identity and substance.
  • Explore metaphysical inquiries related to personal identity over time.
  • Study the implications of change in identity through philosophical texts.
  • Examine contemporary discussions on identity in the context of technology and artificial intelligence.
USEFUL FOR

Philosophers, students of metaphysics, and anyone interested in the nature of identity and existence will benefit from this discussion.

  • #31
I think it was Aristotle who suggested, if not said exactly, this quote:

"God is a thought thinking itself."

Whatever else it may mean, it sounds nice. Thought it sounded relevant.
 
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  • #32
Well what happens if we get all our biological parts, minus the brain, replaced with synthetic or bionic replacements. Or even have some way of replacing our brain, thus eleminating all biological components?
 
  • #33
NavyMan said:
Well what happens if we get all our biological parts, minus the brain, replaced with synthetic or bionic replacements. Or even have some way of replacing our brain, thus eleminating all biological components?

The conclusion I have reached is that if you are going to apply the word entity (in the strictest sense) to something than that something must be a pure thing which never changes even a little bit. If it did change than it would be something else and have another name. So mathematical entities are good objects to label but a physical object is not. We may use the word loosly in everyday language but if the word is to be scrutinised than there is no hope if used on physical objects. Paradox will natually emerge.
 

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