...Beauty, cleaning, DIY tips and more - free to join!
   Login   Contact us   Site map   Puzzle Club   Ask a question    Newsletter

Memories Of The Past

Philosophy : Thought Experiments

Many people believe that they have had previous lives, and cite experiences and memories they believe they could not have got from this life alone as evidence.

Whether you are sceptical or open to the possibility, how would you react to the following:

Imagine someone woke up one day, and suddenly they seemed to have a perfect knowledge of Napoleon - able to recall all his memories in graphic detail, from birth right the way through. What's more, this person believes that they are Napoleon, and act in a very Napoleonic way.

Would it be reasonable to assume that this person IS Napoleon, and somehow has come back to life in another body?

The answer to this question will tease apart your view on what it is to constitute personal identity: for instance whether it requires psychological or physical continuity over time.


Profile image!
By: Dan

  More about thought experiments

  Reply to Memories Of The Past

  Receive Our Newsletter

  Send to friend




Questions about thought experiments:

Ask question

More Articles:
Countdown to Death: Thought Experiment
The Big Freeze - Thought Experiment
What is a homunculus