Bill Schmitt on Defining Authenticity

"The editors at Merriam-Webster recently announced that 'authentic' was their 'word of the year' for 2023. They affirmed the perceptiveness voiced decades ago by comedian Robin Williams regarding our experiences: 'Reality - what a concept!'

"More people are wondering about reality, whether they want to embrace it, pursue it, manipulate it, or marginalize it. . . .

"In this culture where truth seems to be up for grabs, dictionary fans realize authenticity is important.

"However, in their news release, Merriam-Webster acknowledged that 'authentic' is a quality that is 'subject to debate.' As they put it, 'the line between "real" and "fake' has become increasingly blurred.'"

In a recent commentary, writer Bill Schmitt reflected on some of the ways we may face the authenticity challenge.

To access Mr. Schmitt's complete post, please visit:

Magis Center: We Seek Authenticity, But Be Careful Defining What's Real (23 APR 24)