The Non-identity Problem and the Psychological Account of Personal Identity

Abstract According to the psychological account of personal identity, our identity is based on continuity connections, and so we do not begin exist until these are possible, some months after conception. This entails faces a challenge from non-identity problem—our intuition that someone cannot be harmed by actions responsible for their existence, even if seem clearly cause them harm. It usually discussed with regard preconception harms, but in context account, it also applicable prenatal harms. Inflicting injury widely thought morally impermissible, identity-determining then no-one seems harmed—rather, bringing into existence. Here, I argue injuries can routinely occur this undermines account. assess Nicola Williams’ proposal salvage trans-world show unsuccessful. Jeff McMahan’s embodied mind susceptible. conclude pose significant its variants, provide reason supporting alternative accounts fix at