WHO I AM?... THE PARADOX OF THESEUS

In the vast tapestry of human existence, one question resonates through the corridors of time: "Who am I?" It's a query that has baffled philosophers, theologians, and seekers of truth for millennia. To explore the depths of this existential quandary, we turn to the ancient myth of Theseus, as recounted by the Greek historian Plutarch.

Three (3) questions arise:

1. Who was I when I was a child?

2. Who was I 20 years ago?

3. Who will I be in another 40 years?

The Ship of Theseus, often referred to as Theseus’ paradox, presents a compelling thought experiment that challenges our understanding of identity and continuity. This paradox probes the question of whether an object, after undergoing complete replacement of all its components, can still be considered the same object. The origins of this paradox are traced back to Plutarch's "Life of Theseus," penned in the late first century.

In this philosophical conundrum, Plutarch poses a scenario where a ship, belonging to the legendary hero Theseus, undergoes extensive restoration. Every single wooden part of the vessel is replaced over time. The crucial question arises: does the ship retain its identity as the Ship of Theseus despite the replacement of every individual component?

This dilemma strikes at the heart of our understanding of identity and essence. If we consider identity to be defined by the physical composition of an object, then the ship, with all its parts replaced, may no longer be the same entity. However, if we view identity as something beyond mere materiality, encompassing history, symbolism, and continuity, then perhaps the Ship of Theseus endures despite its physical transformations.

The Ship of Theseus paradox continues to captivate philosophers, prompting discussions on the nature of identity, persistence, and change. It challenges us to reconsider our preconceptions about the essence of objects and the fluidity of identity over time.

As we ponder this age-old paradox, we are invited to reflect on the deeper implications it holds for our understanding of selfhood and existence. Just as the Ship of Theseus navigates the seas of uncertainty, so too do we navigate the currents of identity, ever-evolving yet anchored by the threads of continuity and tradition.

AM I BEING WHAT I WAS BEING, WILL I BE WHAT I AM BEING?

DO WE CHANGE IDENTITIES OVER TIME?.