Chapter 62: Human? (8)
Human cells were almost entirely replaced after approximately one year, with only a few exceptions. This raised the issue of whether an individual remained the same person as they were a year ago. The concept of replacing something while considering it identical to its original form aligned with Theseus’s Paradox, which examined the relationship between change and identity.
At this moment, the situation before Ketal mirrored the Ship of Theseus perfectly. The only differences were the removal of the concept of death and the acquisition of unique abilities. From the perspective of the people who were taken over, these differences were likely as trivial as growing taller, nails lengthening, or hair growing.
Adamant did not fully deny Ketal’s comparison. “It is similar, but there is one important difference. A ship does not have a sense of self, whereas I do. I am human.”
“And who can verify that your sense of self is truly that of the original Adamant?” Ketal said, shrugging. “You consider yourself human based on the continuity of your memories. However, that continuity is not evidence. Ultimately, it is your subjective belief. What truly matters are the observations of those around you.”
Adamant found himself momentarily speechless.
“If something possessing your memories, abilities, and habits replaced the original you and continued to live as you, it would be difficult to prove that it is not you,” Ketal continued. “If a replica of you appeared and claimed to be Adamant, and if that replica genuinely believed it was Adamant, it would essentially become Adamant. Would you accept it as such?”
Adamant’s expression shifted into one of clear confusion. “Are you really a barbarian?”
The Tower Master’s surprise matched Adamant’s. Ketal’s approach extended far beyond intelligence or logical reasoning. He was examining the essence and perspective of existence itself, using a philosophical method.
A philosophical barbarian seemed utterly contradictory, and Adamant regarded Ketal as if he were something out of the ordinary.
“A barbarian applying philosophy is something I never expected. Honestly, you are stranger than I am,” Adamant said.
“I simply possess a great deal of knowledge,” Ketal replied, shaking his head.