Single Idea 1330

[catalogued under 9. Objects / E. Objects over Time / 2. Objects that Change]

Full Idea

As the same individual republic may not only change its members, but also its laws and constitutions; in like manner the same person may vary his character and disposition, as well as his impressions and ideas, without losing his identity.

Gist of Idea

If a republic can retain identity through many changes, so can an individual

Source

David Hume (Treatise of Human Nature [1739], I.IV.6)

Book Reference

'Personal Identity', ed/tr. Perry,John [University of California 1975], p.170