ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how the cumulative network model (CNM) of the self conceptualizes a self’s capacity for a first-person perspective. The cumulative network self is conceived as a community of first-personal perspectives. A reflexive “I” perspective is not an observer or evaluator perspective apart from the locations of the self. Rather, “I” is a reflexive function, by which the self as a network of traits evaluates or mediates from some location(s) or other. This reflexive activity should be thought of as “self-” or “reflexive communication,” a concept borrowed from Buchler and developed further. It is reflexivity in a perspective, that is, always from or within some location or other. Relational constitution does not undermine but rather makes self-mediation possible. Through reflexive communication the self actively contributes to its own self-constitution and practical identity, and is also capable of directing itself through higher level reason-giving and reason-responsive activity. Comparison and contrast is also made to Mead and Royce.
