Something is said to have authenticity when it is true and there is evidence for it. The idea of authenticity is opposed to another, falsehood. These two antagonistic concepts are used to delimit or classify something, since it is not always evident that an object is real or it is a falsified version. Thus, a work of art can be false or authentic and only an expert is able to attest to it.
Authenticity in the products
Among the products we consume there are some that are counterfeits. To prevent the trade in counterfeit products, strategies have been put in place to ensure the veracity of those that are genuine and therefore authentic. Quality certificates or seals represent a way for consumers not to be deceived and have full guarantees that the products purchased are not false or manipulated versions.
The market for counterfeit products is vast (works of art, imitations of trademarks, counterfeit currency, among many other areas).
Personal authenticity
Hypocrisy, falsehood or lies are common among humans. In contrast, someone is considered to have authenticity when they do not pretend, do not cheat and present themselves as they really are.
Authentic people show themselves to others in their true personal dimension, without folds or strategies, telling the truth even if they are not understood.
Someone is authentic when he does not care about the opinion of others and wants to be true to himself. This attitude is commendable but it is not exempt from possible social rejection, since being faithful to some principles and values implies possible confrontations with some sector of society.
Being authentic is a personal aspiration and most individuals have a favorable opinion regarding its degree of authenticity. However, the different forms of manipulation are considered socially useful and, consequently, sincere and honest attitudes are sometimes detrimental to the personal interests of each one.
Being authentic is not fooling others and, above all, not fooling yourself. Whoever possesses this personality trait assumes the consequences of their actions and knows that they will most likely have to go against the current or pay a high price for it.
