The following text discusses narrative identity.
Narrative identity theories hold that personal identity is constituted through life stories we tell about ourselves. Coherent selfhood emerges not from metaphysical facts about psychological or physical continuity but from narrative integration of disparate experiences. Critics question whether narrative unity accurately describes actual self-experience or imposes a literary model on a reality that is messier, more fragmented, and less coherent than stories suggest.
What is the main purpose of the text?
To provide instructions for writing personal memoirs
To explain narrative identity theory and note concerns about its accuracy
To compare autobiographical writing across different cultures
To argue that personal identity is an illusion
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text explains narrative identity (selfhood through stories) and notes critical concerns (literary model vs. messy reality).
- Evidence: The text explains the theory: "Narrative identity theories hold that personal identity is constituted through life stories." It notes concerns: "Critics question whether narrative unity accurately describes actual self-experience or imposes a literary model on a reality that is messier."
- Reasoning: The passage introduces a philosophical theory of the self and then presents its main critique.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to explain theory and concerns.
💡 Strategy: Summarize: We are our stories (Theory). But life is messy... (Concern).
Choice A is incorrect because memoir instructions aren't given. Choice C is incorrect because cultures aren't compared. Choice D is incorrect because illusion isn't argued.