Self-Knowledge

Is self-knowledge is a form of 'privileged access' limited to knowledge of one's mind? Is self-knowledge the same thing as introspection? How do I acquire self-knowledge in the first place? What is the relationship between self-knowledge and personal identity? The problem of self-knowledge is one of [...]
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Is self-knowledge is a form of 'privileged access' limited to knowledge of one's mind? Is self-knowledge the same thing as introspection? How do I acquire self-knowledge in the first place? What is the relationship between self-knowledge and personal identity? The problem of self-knowledge is one of the most important of all philosophical puzzles and is closely connected to important debates in philosophy of mind and epistemology. It is also a deceptively difficult problem. In this outstanding introduction Brie Gertler assesses the central topics and debates concerning self-knowledge, explaining the work of many of the key figures in the field; from Kant and Hume, through to Bertrand Russell and Gilbert Ryle, as well as recent work by Tyler Burge, David Chalmers and Daniel Dennett. Beginning with an outline of the distinction between self-knowledge and self-awareness and providing essential historical background to the problem, Gertler then addresses specific theories of self-knowledge such as Russell's acquaintance theory, the inner-sense theory, and the rationalist theory, before concluding with an evaluation of competing empiricist and rationalist approaches.Including helpful chapter summaries, annotated further reading and a glossary, "Self-Knowledge" is essential reading for all students of philosophy of mind, epistemology, and metaphysics.