Abstract

A paradox is a pair of incompatible statements, each of which is supported by what seem to be sound arguments. In the case of the paradox of the individual, the two conflicting statements arise out of two vastly different philosophical traditions, traditions so alien to each other in style and terminology that disputes between them are hardly ever sharp or clear. But when these two traditions have spoken of “the individual,” they have meant the same thing — viz. the moral individual, the individual person — and have presented fairly clear, persuasive arguments for their points of view. Our main object here will be to elicit a clear expression of this paradox, and then we will consider a possible resolution.