The Problem of Personal Identity in the Context of SMART Society Development: A Philosophical Analysis

Abstract

The article provides a philosophical reflection on the problem of personal identity in the context of the development of a SMART society, which is forming a new sociocultural reality deeply connected with digital technologies, artificial intelligence, virtual communication, and information overload.

Purpose. The article aims to provide the impact of digital technologies on self-awareness, moral autonomy, and personal integrity, and to outline recommendations for adapting to the new digital reality in the context of the development of a SMART society.

Methods. The work uses retrospective and comparative analysis of the main philosophical concepts of identity – from classical to postmodern and contemporary digital approaches. Philosophical-anthropological, hermeneutic, and interdisciplinary approaches are also used to assess the transformations of sociocultural conditions in the SMART society.

Results. It has been proven that in the context of digitalization, the classical understanding of identity as a stable and autonomous structure is giving way to new concepts of hybridity, fragmentation, and network multiplicity. The digital environment simultaneously creates new opportunities for self-expression and moral development, but also generates risks of losing authenticity, moral autonomy, and a holistic «I». The key aspects of the impact of digital technologies on self-awareness are identified, and the features of the transformation of sociocultural conditions in a SMART society are outlined.

Conclusions. In today’s digital world, the individual functions as a hybrid structure formed in interaction with algorithms, social networks, and platforms. Philosophical anthropology is called upon not only to criticize the destructive aspects of digital culture, but also to develop humanistic strategies for human adaptation to the digital environment. The recommendations proposed in the article – the development of critical thinking, digital literacy, reflective practices, and maintaining a balance between online and offline reality – can serve as a basis for further research and practical implementation.