Identity After Severe Amnesia: Philosophical and Psychological Perspectives

Whether personal identity persists after severe amnesia remains debated. Cases vary: some individuals show complete personality/belief transformation (suggesting identity disruption), while others retain core traits despite memory loss (suggesting identity continuity).

Resolution depends on the identity criterion emphasized: psychological continuity (memories, values) versus a persistent underlying essence. Empirical assessment of post-amnesia character is necessary for case-specific conclusions.