Asked by Yvenica Staleny on Jun 09, 2024

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If John Locke's theory of the self as consciousness is correct, then

A) bodies do not exist.
B) someone who has amnesia about his life in the past could be said to be a different self.
C) only God knows who our selves are.
D) solipsism is true.

Consciousness

Mental awareness (not to be confused with conscience).

John Locke

A 17th-century English philosopher and political theorist, recognized as a founder of modern philosophical empiricism and liberalism.

Amnesia

A condition characterized by the partial or total loss of memory, often due to brain injury, disease, or psychological trauma.

  • Investigate the difficulties involved in characterizing self-identity by examining memory and consciousness.
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Verified Answer

LD
Lonnie DittmarJun 13, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
John Locke's theory of the self as consciousness means that our personal identity is tied to our memories and experiences, rather than any physical or biological factors. If someone loses their memories through amnesia, then according to this theory, they would not have the same personal identity or sense of self as before. Therefore, option B is the best choice. Option A is incorrect, as Locke did not deny the existence of the physical body. Option C is also incorrect, as Locke believed that personal identity was accessible to human reason. Option D is also incorrect, as solipsism is the belief that one's own mind is the only thing that can be known to exist, whereas Locke's theory acknowledges the existence of other minds and individuals.