Wendell's Diary

In the universe of Star Trek, transporter technology allows characters to be “beamed” from one location to another almost instantaneously. While this is a marvel of science fiction, it also raises intriguing philosophical questions about identity and continuity. The essence of the transporter technology involves breaking down a person’s molecules at one location and reassembling them at another. This process can be viewed from two perspectives: one where the same material is reassembled, and another where new material is used to recreate the individual. If the transporter uses the same material, it suggests a form of physical continuity. The person at the destination is composed of the same molecules as before, merely relocated. In this scenario, we might argue that the individual remains the same, as their physical essence is continuous, despite the disruption in their spatial location. However, if new material is used to recreate the individual, the question of identity becomes more ...

The Ship of Theseus is a classic philosophical paradox that explores the nature of identity and change. In this thought experiment, every part of Theseus’s ship is replaced over time until none of the original components remain. This raises the question: Is it still the same ship? This paradox isn’t just a curiosity for ancient philosophers; it has profound implications for our understanding of human identity. Like the ship, the human body undergoes continuous change. It’s often said that we replace all of our body’s cells approximately every seven years. If our physical composition changes entirely over time, are we still the same person? The answer lies in the concept of psychological continuity. Unlike physical continuity, which is constantly disrupted by biological processes, psychological continuity is maintained through our experiences and consciousness. Even as our cells renew, our memories, thoughts, and personality form a continuous thread that preserves our identity. However,...

Having been born in the U.S. and migrating to Australia at the age of 14, my journey has been one of discovering and reconciling my identity between two countries. Initially, moving to Australia felt like entering a different world. The public transport system took precedence over cars, there were no guns, and violence was significantly less. The people were calmer and more relaxed, and there were more supports available. At first, I felt like a foreigner, but over time, I embraced the Australian culture. Despite not having many Australian friends, living here and immersing myself in the environment made me feel Australian. The public transport system, social services, and the balanced blend of capitalism and socialism resonate with me deeply. Australia takes care of its people, providing financial support for those who can’t work, ensuring they can survive and even save a bit for the future. This is something I find lacking in the U.S. Conversely, there are aspects of America that mak...