Playing the Game: Existential Authenticity in A System You Cannot Escape
Since young, I loved to run. When 10-year-old me first learnt about the Singapore Sports School, it was a no-brainer to commit 6 years to living on campus, training every day on weekdays, even during holidays. But most people then—and even now, but I believe less so—said that “In Singapore, there’s no future in sports”. […]
Authenticity vs. Algorithms: Staying True to Yourself Inside Systems You Can’t Control
Everyone seems to be on Instagram these days, but it took me about five years to finally join the bandwagon. Initially, I really wasn’t sure I wanted to go on it. The thought of constantly posting, promoting myself, and trying to be “discovered” felt exhausting. Part of me just likes doing things at my own […]
Finding My Voice: Navigating Authenticity as an Asian
As an Asian raised with collectivist values, I struggled to find my voice. Expressing my true thoughts and feelings didn’t always align with keeping harmony. I often wondered, “Can I really be my authentic self if I do not openly assert my individuality?” Pop culture frequently equates authenticity with freely articulating your inner world. But […]
Reflections: How Did I Become an Authenticity Researcher?
For a long time now, I have always wondered if authenticity and being Asian are compatible. Having grown up in Singapore and coming from a traditional Chinese family, I’ve been taught to greet my elders and respect authority figures. We have a saying in mandarin, ‘ 入得厨房 出得厅堂’. It means that an ideal woman is […]
Authenticity: Is Being True to Ourselves Enough?
What do you think of this necklace?” the wife asked. It was a thin silver chain with a dark, large stone encased in silver. “I think it’s gaudy, something my grandmother might wear,” the husband replied. What is your first response if you were the wife? The husband here is Dennis D. Waskul, a professor […]