Signs I've been up too long: The ship of Theseus

"DancesWithRotors - Driving Insightfully" (danceswithrotors) 05/03/2014 at 02:34 • Filed to: None

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I started thinking about my Spider, and how I'm replacing components one by one... I've already replaced several of the "expendable" components, and I'm going to be replacing floor pans relatively soon, as well as the rear wheel arches and door skins... It makes me wonder, does it eventually stop being the same car?

Is it always the same Fiat, or will it change identity, and when will that point be?

Kids, let this be a warning: Don't get a philosophy minor, or you'll start applying the Theseus paradox to your car habit.

The Compromiser > DancesWithRotors - Driving Insightfully 05/03/2014 at 10:07

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An author I read has summed this up a couple of ways, but really it's always the same conclusion.

A man has his family axe. It's been in the family for generations. Of course over time, the handle's been broken and replaced, and the head has been sharpened one too many times or nicked too deep and needed replacement. It is still the axe that's been in his family for generations because it's soul and place in the world hasnt changed.

Alternately: No. What are you? Crazy?

Redd, the RX-7 that could > DancesWithRotors - Driving Insightfully 05/03/2014 at 12:33

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I think it stops being the same car when you replace more than two panels, or when you start replacing chassis components.

DancesWithRotors - Driving Insightfully > Redd, the RX-7 that could 05/03/2014 at 13:11

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Dammit, the Fiat won't be the same car when I replace both floor pans... :(

Redd, the RX-7 that could > DancesWithRotors - Driving Insightfully 05/03/2014 at 23:46

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Haha I meant exterior panels, those floor pans tend to rust out pretty quick so I let 'em slide ;)