Work

The Value of Authenticity for Meaning in Life

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This article develops an original account of the value of authenticity for meaning in life that explains how and when acting authentically enhances meaning in life. I argue that we appropriate meaningful actions by acting authentically, contra Joseph Raz’s (2001) position that appropriation occurs through attachments. Authentic actions are distinctly owned by the individual and the more a meaningful action is appropriated, the more it contributes to the meaning in their life. Considering authenticity as an enhancing factor for a meaningful life refines accounts of meaning in life and strengthens objectivist approaches against objections. The value authenticity holds for meaning in life is furthermore not susceptible to the critique of immoral or self-centered authenticity.

Source: Journal of the American Philosophical Association

DOI: 10.1017/apa.2026.10032

Author: MURIEL LEUENBERGER

Institution: University of Zurich

Language: English

Topic: Philosophical Ethics and Theory

Subfield: Philosophy

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,550

Funders: National Science Foundation, Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung, Universität Zürich