The Illusory Self: David Hume and Early Buddhism on Personal Identity

Abstract

Both David Hume and Buddhism provides arguments refuting the existence of a personal identity, with evidence based on the fact that we cannot find an unchanging self within us. However, the differing views that the two philosophical systems hold toward the essence of causality is closely linked to their way of explaining the illusory nature of the self and indicates fundamental differences between the two theories. The contrasting context and purpose of the ideologies lead to contrasting meaning behind the seemingly similar denials of the self, with Hume aiming for revelation while Buddhism for guidance.