The Non-Identity Problem: thought experiments in the ethics of designing for future people

Buwert, Peter; Sinclair, Matt

Abstract

The Non-Identity Problem (NIP) is a philosophical puzzle which challenges our intuitive assumptions and reasoning around the question of our moral obligations towards ‘future people’. This paper explores the significance of the NIP for design, an activity which is necessarily both future-oriented and ethical in nature. Through examination of two thought experiments proposed by philosopher Derek Parfit, this paper makes two contributions to the field of design ethics. Firstly, it raises the profile of the NIP as a topic of interest and for further study in design ethics research. The second is to propose that philosophical thought experiments can play a practical role in equipping designers for real-world challenges. When employed as thinking devices to disrupt our existing ways of thinking, thought experiments open up spaces of creative disequilibrium in which to nurture, exercise, and strengthen mental capacities for approaching the ethically complex challenges of future-oriented design practice.

Citation

Buwert, P., & Sinclair, M. (2024, June). The Non-Identity Problem: thought experiments in the ethics of designing for future people. Presented at DRS 2024, Boston, USA

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: DRS 2024
• Start Date: Jun 23, 2024
• End Date: Jun 28, 2024
• Acceptance Date: Mar 25, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Jun 23, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jun 30, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 1, 2024
• Print ISSN: 2398-3132
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Book Title: DRS2024: Boston
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.21606/drs.2024.518
• Keywords: thought experiments; responsible design; non-identity problem; veil of ignorance; design futures