If we consider that all we deal with represents constantly changing sub-microscopic, interrelated processes which are not, and cannot be 'identical with themselves', the old dictum that 'everything is identical with itself' becomes in [today's understanding of the universe] a principle invariably false to facts.' (Note: Korzybski used '1933' to specify the current understanding. This editor has subsituted the 'more general' form: [today's understanding...])
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Korzybski argues that reality consists of dynamic processes, so static identity claims are factually incorrect in modern science.
- In plain terms
- Nothing stays exactly the same over time, so saying things are identical to themselves is false.
- What can you take from it?
- Understand reality as change, not fixed identity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does change affect your definition of self?
- Where do you see static identity in your work?
Another view
Some logic systems still require identity axioms for consistency.
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