Can We Overcome Parfit’s Non-Identity Problem?

Abstract

Derek Parfit's non-identity problem defies our intuitions in thinking intergenerational justice. It seems as though we can no longer justify conservation and instead our moral duty is to deplete our resources and live for the present. In this essay I offer a critique of the non-identity problem by targeting its consequentialist outcomes. I conclude by suggesting that the non-identity problem does not stand up in the face of deontological questioning and that we do in fact have a duty to conserve for future generations. In this essay I will examine Parfit’s non-identity problem (NIP) and its relevance in modern political discourse on trans-generational justice. Firstly, I willdetail Parfit’s own thoughts on the matter. Following this, I shall criticise Parfit’s conclusions with reference to James Woodward and Rahul Kumar in particular, and argue that we can overcome the NIP, though not for the reasons Parfit suggests.