Aura Seikkula

On the Notion of Culture and Identity: a Study of Paul Ricoeur's Narrative Identity Aura Seikkula

The question of the self has been a relevant onesince early Plato and Aristotle. However, there isno universally accepted definition of the self. Identity as a concept lies at the basis ofcontemporary cultural theories. In the work of French philosopher Paul Ricoeur, thedialogues from all the characteristic philosophicalmovements of the 20th century emerge. Hermeneuticslays a discursive, critical and creative basis to hisworks. This study aims to deliver a presentation ofthe narrative philosophy by Paul Ricoeur, performedas a contextual exploration of the elements andaspects it involves. Furthermore, the study aims todefine the meaning of narrative identity in theprocess of formulating cultural identity. Throughthese aims, this study intends to contribute tovarious specific questions related to narrativity, identity and their shared forms in general.