personal identity
/ˈpɜːr·sən·əl aɪˈdɛntɪti/ · per·so·nal i·den·ti·ty
noun
- The set of characteristics, experiences, values, and self‑perceptions that distinguish one individual from others. Her personal identity is shaped by her multicultural upbringing and her love of jazz.
- In legal contexts, the collection of attributes (such as name, date of birth, and biometric data) that uniquely identify a person for official purposes. The government requires proof of personal identity before issuing a passport.
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Did you know? The modern philosophical discussion of personal identity traces back to John Locke’s 1690 essay, where he argued that continuity of consciousness, not the soul, defines personal identity.