Taking Account of Genetics in Human Identity Research
Our Own Identity (OOI) is an Irish genealogical and family history company. We recognise that the quest for identity is a central theme in both genealogy, family history and genetics. Human genetics offers a scientific basis for understanding identity, emphasising the role of DNA in defining who we are. Rapid advances in sequencing and analysing the human genome have strengthened essentialist thinking about identity, suggesting that it is an inborn, natural, and unalterable quality.
Identity Resides in the Human Genome and is Compatible with Cognitive Perspectives of ‘Self’
For this reason, the original definition of identity is championed by Our Own Identity. Viewed from this vantage point, the potential exists to understand biological identity and cognitive perspectives of ‘self’ as being separate but complementary HERE.
Despite the complexities and controversies surrounding the use of human genetics in identity research, it is clear that integrating genetic and cognitive perspectives can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of who we are. The combination is sometimes termed ‘cognidem‘, derived from cognition plus idem or ‘sameness’. This approach not only enhances our knowledge of genetic identity but also provides insights into how genetics and subjective notions of cognition can be mutually reinforcing.
The concept was first proposed in Our Own Identity’s book Shelter and Shadows which was published in 2016 HERE.
Contact
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ourownidentity AT gmail.com (AT = @)