Reconstructing the naïve theory of the self

Even though the scientific question whether the concept of a “Self” is necessary to
explain human behavior is still open, it is obvious that the concept does play a role
in everyday behavior laypeople attribute a self to other humans, but also to non
human animals or technical systems, and they treat them accordingly For instance,
agents that are perceived as having a self are treated more carefully and politely,
and they receive more empathy But what are the criteria for attributing a self to
another agent?

PIs: Bernhard Hommel, Arvid Kappas

Co-PI: Francesco Maurelli

PhD Students: Kristina Nikolovska