Narrative negotiation of personal identity

• Published in: Philosophical explorations Vol. 28; no. 1; pp. 85 - 102
• Main Author: Cristina Contrino, Maria
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 02.01.2025; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: embodiment; erroneous narratives; Identity; Narratives; negotiation; oppressive identities; ordinary everyday narratives; Practical identity
• ISSN: 1386-9795; 1741-5918
• DOI: 10.1080/13869795.2025.2459939

I develop a framework for a narrative approach to personal identity as a practical notion that focuses on the role of narratives employed in common, ordinary contexts and everyday interactions (henceforth 'ordinary everyday narratives'). However, such narratives can be erroneous and contain factual errors and distortions, including delusions about one's identity. I review three narrative approaches arguing that they do not account convincingly for the role of erroneous narratives for one's practical identity. I argue that a practical identity is negotiated in ordinary everyday verbal and embodied narratives. According to my narrative approach, firstly, ordinary everyday narratives often suffice to convey one's experiences, beliefs and aims within everyday interactions with others. Secondly, embodiment allows one to develop embodied narratives, i.e. temporally organised and goal-directed sequences of actions, habits and skills. Thirdly, one negotiates her practical identity through narratives and embodied interactions that structure first-personal and second-personal practical relations. I argue that a negotiated practical identity allows for the 'repair' of minor errors and the recognition of the practical significance of major errors, like delusional narratives, in shaping one's practical identity. Finally, identity negotiation offers some scope for resistance against oppressive narratives.