Self is a dynamic open system based on ones actions king 1981 explains self as jersilds 1952 definition that knowledge of self is a key to understanding human behavior because self is the way i define me to myself and to others self is all that i am i am a whole person. In this clear and reasoned discussion of self knowledge and the self the author asks whether it is really possible to know ourselves as we really are he illuminates issues about the nature of self identity which are of fundamental importance in moral psychology epistemology and literary criticism. Discussions of self knowledge often assume that the speaker must know the truth of such claims snowdon challenges this assumption the general lesson is that widespread assumptions are worth challenging the views expressed in this book are wide ranging and some authors disagree with others overall the book gives a good idea of what . Self knowledge is a component of the self or more accurately the self concept it is the knowledge of oneself and ones properties and the desire to seek such knowledge that guide the development of the self concept even if that concept is flawed