This study analyzes the role of narrative in the formation of the “self” and “self-representation” within the framework of Paul Ricoeur’s narrative identity theory, comparing it with the perspectives of Dennett and Taylor to clarify its position in consciousness and identity studies. Employing a mixed approach that includes conceptual analysis, hermeneutic critique, and comparative methods, the research draws on Ricoeur’s major works—especially Time and Narrative and Oneself as Another—alongside other philosophers and credible academic sources up to 2025. The analyses utilize both deductive and inductive reasoning. Ricoeur’s theory situates the concept of the “self” within social and historical interactions, shaped through the process of mimesis (prefiguration, configuration, and refiguration), and distinguishes between idem-identity (stability of features) and ipse-identity (temporality, commitment, and self-awareness). Emphasizing temporality and social engagement, this theory diverges from individualistic and cognitive views while aligning more closely with cultural frameworks. By systematically comparing Ricoeur’s theory with rival perspectives, this research fills a gap in comparative analysis in philosophy of mind and provides an interdisciplinary framework for understanding identity, applicable in narrative psychology and literary studies. Ricoeur’s narrative identity theory, integrating hermeneutics and phenomenology, offers a relatively comprehensive understanding of the “self” but requires enrichment through empirical and non-linguistic approaches. This framework lays the groundwork for future research in philosophy of mind and human sciences.
Panahbar, E. (2026). Narrative, Self, and Self-Representation: Paul Ricoeur’s Hermeneutic Analysis in Consciousness and Identity Studies. (e22023). Wisdom And Philosophy, (), e22023 https://doi.org/10.22054/wph.2026.86721.2313
MLA
Panahbar, E. "Narrative, Self, and Self-Representation: Paul Ricoeur’s Hermeneutic Analysis in Consciousness and Identity Studies" .e22023 , Wisdom And Philosophy, , 2026, e22023. doi: 10.22054/wph.2026.86721.2313
HARVARD
Panahbar, E. (2026). 'Narrative, Self, and Self-Representation: Paul Ricoeur’s Hermeneutic Analysis in Consciousness and Identity Studies', Wisdom And Philosophy, (), e22023. doi: 10.22054/wph.2026.86721.2313
CHICAGO
Panahbar, E., "Narrative, Self, and Self-Representation: Paul Ricoeur’s Hermeneutic Analysis in Consciousness and Identity Studies." Wisdom And Philosophy, (2026): e22023, doi: 10.22054/wph.2026.86721.2313
VANCOUVER
Panahbar E. Narrative, Self, and Self-Representation: Paul Ricoeur’s Hermeneutic Analysis in Consciousness and Identity Studies. Wisdom And Philosophy. 2026;():e22023 (In Persian). doi: 10.22054/wph.2026.86721.2313