Posted by Ryan on November 22, 1999 at 21:09:12:
I know I have been writing a lot lately, but here is something which I
really thought might interest some minds. I want to see if it can be answered.
If consciousness is part of the brains reactions, etc. then what would
happen--strictly scientifically speaking--- if our bodies blew up, and particles
ended up all over the world? We would not be conscious, right? But what if
someone used other atoms than the ones which had previously composed our bodies
and assembled us together again exactly as were before? Would we be
conscious, again? if the answer is no, why not? If the answer is yes, then
what if the same genius who reconstructed our bodies were to go around the world
and find/sort through the exact same atoms which had previously composed us
(I say atoms, but I refer to the sub-atomic particles) and re-assemble the exact
bodies which we originally had? Now, would they be conscious, as well?
If yes, then which would be us? The re-creation of the first ones using
the same material, or the re-creation using different material?
Which set of eyes would "I" be looking through?
Whatever you think, please explain, don't just refer me to a book--although
most book reference offered here are alright---I am just looking for some
dialogue on this question.
Think long and hard. This is seriously like a personal challenge to all
of you...I pose it to people sometimes, and they refuse to answer, or don't
explain why they feel how they do. It's frustrating, so please respond if
you think you have some insights!