Single Idea 1333

[catalogued under 16. Persons / D. Continuity of the Self / 2. Mental Continuity / a. Memory is Self]

Full Idea

Memory does not so much produce as discover personal identity, by showing us the relation of cause and effect among our different perceptions.

Gist of Idea

Memory only reveals personal identity, by showing cause and effect

Source

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

Book Reference

'Personal Identity', ed/tr. Perry,John [University of California 1975], p.171


A Reaction

This is a rather strained proposal, as the revelation of a network of cause and effect seems to have no implications for personal identity (unless only 'I' could be the cause).