The Network Self: Relation, Process, and Personal Identity

The concept of a relational self has been ignored in traditional philosophical theories of personal identity, which have been dominated by psychological and animal theories. This book offers a systematic treatment of the notion of the self as constituted by social, cultural, political, and biological relations, incorporating practical concerns and addressing how a relational self has agency, autonomy, responsibility, and continuity through time in the face of change and impairments. The ultimate aim of the book is to bridge traditions that are often disconnected from one another—feminism, personal identity theory, and pragmatism—to develop a unified theory of the self.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The notion of a relational self has garnered significant attention within feminism, communitarianism, narrative self theories, and social network theories, playing a pivotal role in theorizing about the practical aspects of selfhood. Regrettably, it has largely been overlooked in traditional philosophical frameworks that have been predominantly influenced by psychological and animal theories of the self. In response, this book presents a comprehensive exploration of the self as a multifaceted entity, shaped by social, cultural, political, and biological relations. The authors' account incorporates practical considerations and delves into the agency, autonomy, responsibility, and continuity of a relational self amidst change and impairments. Drawing upon concepts from the American pragmatist and naturalist traditions, this cumulative network model (CNM) of the self aims to bridge the often fragmented fields of feminism, personal identity theory, and pragmatism, ultimately fostering the development of a unified theory of the self.

The concept of a relational self has gained prominence in various philosophical frameworks, including feminism, communitarianism, narrative self theories, and social network theories. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of individuals and their relationships with others, culture, society, and biology. This perspective challenges the traditional notion of a self that is isolated and independent, highlighting the importance of social and cultural factors in shaping one's identity.

In traditional philosophical theories of personal identity, psychological and animal theories have dominated the discourse. These theories often focus on the individual's internal mental processes and experiences, disregarding the broader social and cultural context in which they exist. However, the relational self theory recognizes that the self is not merely an internal construct but is shaped by external factors and relationships.

One of the key aspects of the relational self theory is its emphasis on agency. It argues that individuals have the capacity to shape their own identities and relationships through their actions and choices. The self is not fixed or predetermined but is constantly evolving and adapting to the changing circumstances and experiences. This agency is not only a cognitive process but also involves emotional and physical aspects, as individuals navigate the complexities of social interactions and relationships.

Another important aspect of the relational self theory is autonomy. It recognizes that individuals have the right to make their own decisions and choices, regardless of external pressures or expectations. Autonomy is not absolute, as individuals are also influenced by social norms, cultural norms, and political structures. However, it is essential to promote autonomy and allow individuals to develop their own sense of self and purpose.

Responsibility is another key concept in the relational self theory. It emphasizes the importance of individuals taking responsibility for their actions and their impact on others. The self is not just a passive entity but is actively engaged in social and cultural processes, and has the ability to make positive and negative contributions to society. Responsibility requires individuals to be aware of their biases, assumptions, and prejudices and to work towards overcoming them.

Continuity is another important aspect of the relational self theory. It recognizes that individuals are not static entities but are constantly evolving and changing throughout their lives. The self is not a fixed point but a fluid and dynamic construct that is shaped by a combination of internal and external factors. Continuity requires individuals to be able to adapt to change and to maintain a sense of coherence and identity throughout their lives.

The relational self theory has significant implications for understanding personal identity and the practical dimensions of selfhood. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of individuals and their relationships with others, culture, society, and biology. It also highlights the agency, autonomy, responsibility, and continuity of the self, recognizing that these aspects are not separate but are interdependent and interconnected.

The relational self theory has been applied in various fields, including feminist theory, personal identity theory, and social network analysis. Feminist theory has explored the relational nature of gender and how it is shaped by social, cultural, and political factors. Personal identity theory has incorporated the relational self theory to understand the complex and multifaceted nature of personal identity and the ways in which it is shaped by social interactions and relationships. Social network analysis has used the relational self theory to understand the structure and dynamics of social networks and how they influence individuals' identities and behaviors.

Despite its significant contributions, the relational self theory has faced criticism and challenges. Some critics argue that it is too broad and abstract, making it difficult to apply to specific situations or individuals. Others argue that it neglects the importance of individual agency and autonomy, suggesting that individuals should be free to shape their own identities and relationships without external influences.

In response to these criticisms, the relational self theory has been refined and expanded. Researchers have explored different aspects of the theory, such as the role of power, privilege, and inequality in shaping individuals' relationships and identities. They have also developed more specific applications of the theory, such as in the study of marginalized communities and the impact of social exclusion on individuals' sense of self and identity.

In conclusion, the concept of a relational self has gained prominence in various philosophical frameworks, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individuals and their relationships with others, culture, society, and biology. The relational self theory has significant implications for understanding personal identity and the practical dimensions of selfhood. It emphasizes the agency, autonomy, responsibility, and continuity of the self, recognizing that these aspects are not separate but are interdependent and interconnected. While the theory has faced criticism and challenges, it has been refined and expanded, and continues to be an important area of research and inquiry.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032093550