Soren Kierkegaard: 'Be that self which one truly is.'

Be that self which one truly is.

The quote by Soren Kierkegaard, "Be that self which one truly is," encapsulates a profound truth about authenticity and self-discovery. At its core, the quote invites individuals to embrace their true selves, free from societal expectations or the need for approval from others. It emphasizes the importance of being genuine and true to one's own nature, rather than conforming to the expectations and norms imposed by society.In a straightforward interpretation, this quote speaks to the inherent value of self-acceptance and self-expression. It urges individuals to peel away the layers of pretense and reveal their authentic selves to the world. By aligning our actions and choices with our true nature, we can live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, in harmony with our deepest desires and values. Instead of conforming to societal pressures or external influences, Kierkegaard advocates for the cultivation of an inner authenticity that is unique to each individual.However, delving further into this idea, we can introduce a concept that brings unexpected philosophical depth to the discussion – the notion of the multiplicity of self. Contrary to the common perception of a unified and singular self, some philosophical theories propose that human beings are not simply one cohesive identity, but rather a confluence of multiple selves.One such concept is the idea of the "inner theater" introduced by French philosopher Michel Foucault. According to Foucault, rather than possessing a fixed and singular self, individuals have a collection of different selves that emerge in various contexts and situations. Each of these selves is a social construct, shaped by the external influences and power dynamics at play.This concept invites a thought-provoking comparison and contrast with Kierkegaard's quote. While Kierkegaard encourages us to be true to our essence, Foucault's theory of the multiplicity of selves suggests that our true selves are not fixed entities, but rather a fluid and evolving idea influenced by external forces. In this perspective, the process of discovering our true selves becomes more nuanced and complex.By acknowledging the multiplicity of selves, we recognize that our identities are not rigid or guaranteed. Rather, they are malleable and subject to change. This realization presents an opportunity for self-exploration and growth, inviting us to embrace the various aspects of our identity and understand how they interact with the world around us.In a way, the quote by Kierkegaard can be seen as an invitation to uncover and integrate these multiple selves, to understand their origins and influences, and to choose consciously which ones we wish to embody. It suggests that our true self is not a singular fixed identity, but rather a dynamic and multifaceted expression of who we are.Ultimately, the importance of the quote lies in its invitation for self-reflection and introspection. It encourages us to genuinely examine our desires, beliefs, and values, shedding societal expectations and external influences along the way. By embracing this quote, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, navigating the complexities of our true selves and embracing the multiplicity of identities that shape us. Through this process, we strive to be authentic, true to ourselves, and find a sense of fulfillment and purpose in our lives.