Authenticity

Notes

Authenticity is the measure by which we are true to ourselves, whether we are acting in a coherent way with our Core Values. Being authentic requires a certain level of Agency, since otherwise it is not you who determines your actions but outside forces.

Authenticity is not only an outwards facing concept, such as whether my life choices, the way I speak and act match my true nature, but also inwards. To be inauthentic could also mean to lie to yourself, to be in Denial or to experience self oppression. For example, often our desire to be socially accepted can cause us to act like how others expects us to act, rather than following who we wish to be form vs essence. Social forces are often stronger than we think, and while it is irrational to say that we can think, live and even define ourselves separately from others, we can still avoid the forces of "following the Herd".

Therefore to be authentic requires also a measure of Self-awareness, while also having the Courage to follow through and be yourself.

Authenticity is one indication of achieving an harmonious self. This alignment within ourselves and expressing it fully and truthfully to the outside world shows that we know who we are, that we accept who we are, not ashamed of it, and wish to live our true self.

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Overview

🔼Topic:: personality traits (MOC) ◀Origin:: Muriel Leuenberger 🔗Link:: http://blog.practicalethics.ox.ac.uk/2023/02/the-authentic-liar/