‘What Makes Us Who We Are?’ A Theology Of Identity In Light Of The Cognitive Sciences

Abstract

While the cognitive sciences have represented a burgeoning field of research in recent years, the results have rarely been taken into account when questions of identity have been considered. In this thesis I put those results into dialogue with a theological view of identity, arguing that the fullest expression of who we are is found in the Christian understanding of resurrection. In this way, I propose that in the present we participate proleptically to different degrees in who we will be in our resurrection.

At the beginning of the thesis, I explore a basic model of identity indicated by the cognitive sciences. Identity arises from the dynamic interaction between embodiment and embeddedness and has two central aspects; relationships and narrative. If this view of identity is to be reflected theologically, then I argue that the key theological resource is Christology, specifically the work of Christ in creation, redemption and new creation. Within this, new creation is central. It reflects the two emphases identified within the cognitive sciences as the relational and narrative roots of identity are found in Christ yet also embodied and embedded in a world where God is ‘all in all’. This is found in resurrection.

The resurrection of Christ bridges time. It is therefore the foundation of how identity can be found in resurrection, but known now in anticipatory form. To understand this further, I will consider dementia which also arises from embodied and embedded roots. If the identity of someone with dementia can be transient in the present but find its fullness in God, so our identity now is an aspect of who we are and its fullest expression in found in resurrection. Indeed, if the relationships and narratives that express who we are now are reflected in new creation, this has implications for Christian ministry.