impersonalism

Impersonalism is a philosophical stance that denies the existence or significance of personal identity. It suggests that there is no enduring, essential self that persists through time and change. Instead, what we perceive as a continuous self is merely a collection of fleeting moments, perceptions, and mental states. Impersonalism often arises in discussions of consciousness, the self, and the nature of existence. Some traditions within Eastern philosophy, such as certain schools of Buddhism, are often interpreted as having impersonalistic elements, emphasizing the doctrine of anatta (no-self). In Western philosophy, thinkers like David Hume explored similar ideas, describing the self as a "bundle of perceptions." The implications of impersonalism can be profound, potentially affecting views on responsibility, morality, and the meaning of life. If there is no permanent self, then concepts like personal achievement, regret, or even individual suffering might need to be re-evaluated. The core idea is that the personal, subjective experience of being a distinct individual is an illusion or, at best, a temporary construct.