Personal Identity and What Matters in Survival - Lecture 13

Explore the complex philosophical questions surrounding personal identity and survival in this 49-minute lecture from Yale University's "Death" course. Delve into the revised personality theory, which now includes a "no branching" requirement to address issues of personality transfer or duplication. Examine how similar requirements are applied to other theories of personal identity. Consider the metaphysical implications of soul-splitting and engage with Professor Kagan's thought-provoking shift in perspective from "what does it take to survive?" to "what is it that matters in survival?". Through in-depth discussions on body theory, fission, and the nature of the soul, gain a deeper understanding of the philosophical challenges in defining and preserving personal identity.

- Chapter 1. Introduction -- The Personality Theory and No Branching .
- Chapter 2. Fission Is Not Allowed -- The Body Theorist's No Branching Rule .
- Chapter 3. The Metaphysics of Soul-Splitting.
- Chapter 4. What Matters in Survival? Refocusing the Question on Personal Identity.
- Chapter 5. Conclusion .