Arguable Authenticity - The Brussels Philosophy Meetup

It is no secret that throughout the history of the (western) world, the individual has played more and more of a central role. When it comes to morality for example, we rarely talk about virtue, duty or the cosmic order, but mostly about pleasure, pain, human rights, … things that pertain to individual persons.

During this meetup we'll discuss what came along for the ride: an idolization of authenticity.

Why is “Be yourself” such an attractive slogan and what does it mean? Is being authentic always better or can it be dangerous? Are populists and extremists not the most authentic politicians?

If we then consider the rise of synthetic materials, plastic surgery, virtual reality and artificial intelligence, is authenticity doomed? Is the popularity of "Reality TV" and online influencers not a sign that authenticity can be gamed? What is the difference between something/someone seeming authentic and actually being authentic?

Or was authenticity an illusion all along? What (in)forms this self we need to be true to? How can we trust our own interpretation of ourselves?

Come and join this philosophical conversation as you are - and try to arrive on time so you can get a drink before we start :)

Cover photo: Echo and Narcissus by John William Waterhouse