題目 1 · essay
25 分Stimulus:
"We have long defined the self by its boundaries—by what we keep inside, hidden from the world. But when our memories are stored on external servers and our preferences are anticipated by algorithms, the boundary between the internal mind and the external world dissolves. If the self is no longer private, does it still exist?"
With explicit reference to the stimulus provided, write an essay that discusses the extent to which human identity depends on a clear distinction between the internal self and the external world.
"We have long defined the self by its boundaries—by what we keep inside, hidden from the world. But when our memories are stored on external servers and our preferences are anticipated by algorithms, the boundary between the internal mind and the external world dissolves. If the self is no longer private, does it still exist?"
With explicit reference to the stimulus provided, write an essay that discusses the extent to which human identity depends on a clear distinction between the internal self and the external world.
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解題
Analysis of the Stimulus: The stimulus suggests that human identity has historically been associated with an inner, private realm. This private space is threatened by modern technology (cloud storage of memories, predictive algorithms), which blurs the boundary between the internal subject and the external objective network. The key philosophical tension is whether the erosion of this boundary destroys human identity or merely shifts it into a new, extended form.
Philosophical Formulation & Key Concepts:
- The Inner/Outer Distinction: Is the self a private, subjective entity (Cartesian ego) or is it fundamentally public and relational?
- The Extended Mind: Do external digital artifacts constitute part of our cognitive and personal identity?
- Privacy and Autonomy: If our choices are predicted and shaped externally, does our agency—and hence our selfhood—survive?
Arguments for the dependence of selfhood on an inner/outer boundary:
- Cartesian Dualism: Descartes establishes the self as a thinking thing (res cogitans) that is completely separate from the external world. Privacy of the mind is necessary for certain knowledge of the self.
- Lockean Psychological Continuity: While Locke focuses on memory, these memories are typically understood as internal, subjective psychological states. Outsourcing them to external servers risks alienating the self.
- Autonomy and Privacy: From an existential or political standpoint, a defined boundary is crucial for individual agency and resisting external manipulation. Without a private sphere, the self becomes a mere node in a cybernetic network.
Arguments against the dependence of selfhood on an inner/outer boundary:
- The Extended Mind Thesis (Clark & Chalmers): Parity Principle suggests that if an external device performs a function we would readily identify as cognitive if done in the head, it is part of the mind. Thus, memories on external servers are literally part of our mind.
- Phenomenology (Heidegger): Dasein is fundamentally "Being-in-the-world." We are not isolated subjects looking out at an external world; we are always already embedded in and interacting with our environment.
- Relational and Eastern Perspectives: Buddhism's "Anatta" (no-self) rejects the permanent, bounded ego. Ubuntu philosophy ("I am because we are") asserts that identity is constructed through relations, not isolated boundaries.
Critical Evaluation: Students should weigh these perspectives. They might argue that technology does not destroy the self but rather exposes the illusion of the classical, bounded Cartesian self. Alternatively, they might warn that the loss of a private inner sphere under modern algorithmic control genuinely threatens the moral and existential autonomy required for human personhood.
評分準則
Assessment Criteria:
Criterion A: Focus and philosophical formulation (Max 4 marks):
- 4 marks: The response identifies a highly relevant philosophical issue (e.g., the boundary of the self, Cartesian dualism vs. extended mind) arising from the stimulus, defines key terms precisely, and maintains a sharp focus throughout.
Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding of concepts and theories (Max 6 marks):
- 5-6 marks: Excellent knowledge of relevant theories (e.g., Descartes, Clark & Chalmers, Heidegger, Locke, or Eastern perspectives). Ideas are explained accurately, deeply, and with appropriate philosophical vocabulary.
Criterion C: Analysis and evaluation (Max 6 marks):
- 5-6 marks: Critical arguments are highly developed, coherent, and rigorously evaluated. The implications of both internalist and externalist views of the self are thoroughly interrogated.
Criterion D: Personal response and alternative points of view (Max 6 marks):
- 5-6 marks: The response presents a clear, well-supported personal position that actively engages with counter-arguments (e.g., balancing the loss of privacy against the pragmatic benefits of cognitive extension).
Criterion E: Language and structure (Max 3 marks):
- 3 marks: Structure is highly systematic, flowing logically from introduction to conclusion, using precise and appropriate philosophical terminology.