| Polarity Description | The polarity between “Legitimacy” and “Authenticity” delves into the intricate balance between the acceptance and functionality of a worldview within a culture and its depth or evolutionary progression. In Ken Wilber’s approach, “legitimacy” refers to adequacy in horizontal translation, while “authenticity” refers to adequacy in vertical transformation. Translation, in this context, is not about expressing something in another medium or form. Instead, it pertains to how well a worldview functions at its own level, or how it makes sense of the world in its current state. It’s about the adequacy of a particular mode of understanding and interpreting the world without necessarily evolving to a higher or deeper level. On the other hand, transformation refers to a shift or evolution to higher levels or modes of being and understanding. Legitimacy, akin to the process of “translation,” represents the adequacy and acceptance of a worldview at its current level within a society or culture. It provides a consistent framework for interpreting experiences, ensuring that perspectives are coherent, clear, and resonate with the broader community. By translating complex ideas into understandable terms, legitimacy supports the functioning of governing bodies, upholds essential values, and ensures that diverse perspectives are valued and understood. It’s about preserving and honoring established wisdom, traditions, and practices, ensuring that they remain relevant and functional in the present context. Authenticity, echoing the essence of “transformation,” signifies the journey towards higher or deeper levels of consciousness and understanding. It’s about pushing boundaries, challenging established norms, and facilitating significant leaps in awareness. Authenticity encourages the synthesis of diverse perspectives, promotes innovative thinking, and drives forward momentum in personal and collective evolution. As transformation seeks to evolve and shift perspectives to deeper levels, authenticity represents the depth and breadth of a belief system, emphasizing the importance of evolving and adapting to achieve a more profound understanding of existence. |
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About Corey deVos
Corey W. deVos is editor and producer of Integral Life. He has worked for Integral Institute/Integal Life since Spring of 2003, and has been a student of integral theory and practice since 1996. Corey is also a professional woodworker, and many of his artworks can be found in his VisionLogix art gallery.