Single Idea 1378

[catalogued under 16. Persons / B. Nature of the Self / 1. Self and Consciousness]

Full Idea

Everyone finds, that, whilst comprehended under that consciousness, the little finger is as much a part of himself as what is most so.

Gist of Idea

My little finger is part of me if I am conscious of it

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 2.27.17)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.341


A Reaction

It seems as great a violation of someone's personhood to shave off their hair as to cut off the tip of a finger. Can I steal one of your kidneys, since you are not conscious of them?