Single Idea 4020

[catalogued under 16. Persons / A. Concept of a Person / 4. Persons as Agents]

Full Idea

The modern notion of the self is defined by disengaged reason (with its associated freedom and dignity), by self-exploration, and by personal commitment.

Clarification

'Disengaged' presumably means 'neutral'

Gist of Idea

The modern self has disengaged reason, self-exploration, and personal commitment

Source

Charles Taylor (Sources of the Self [1989], §13.1)

Book Reference

Taylor,Charles: 'Sources of the Self' [CUP 1992], p.211


A Reaction

Taylor makes a good case that this broader view of how the self is seen is as important as narrow debates about personal identity.