Genuine Bonds: Investigating the Ethical Dimensions of Authenticity in Love and Friendship

This dissertation explores the intersections of authenticity, identity, and well-being in various challenging contexts. The first chapter, “On Authenticity, Disability, and Wholeheartedness,” critiques the conventional framework of authenticity. While it is true that many cases of authenticity involve an important relationship to values, beliefs, and desires, theories that overemphasize these things inadequately account for other identity-defining traits like disability. I advocate for an expanded model that incorporates commitments to non-value-laden aspects of identity. The second chapter, “On Self-Destruction, Authentic Expression, and Love,” explores the classic conflict between well-being and respect for autonomy, focusing on self-destructive behavior in intimate relationships. I argue that we can respect our loved one’s authentic self-expression and advocate for their well-being by encouraging them to reflect on whether their behavior genuinely aligns with their core values and their long-term interests. The third chapter, “On Authenticity, Passing, and Self-Love,” explores the impact of intentionally concealing our identity from others on self-love and authenticity. “Passing” can ensure safety in a hostile environment, but it risks damaging one’s ability to accept and appreciate oneself. I argue that passing can co-exist with self-love if one understands passing as a tactical response to societal bias, cultivates private relationships in which one can be authentic, and extends grace to those who unknowingly discriminate against stigmatized identities.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Kansas

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Hunt, Taylor Geneveve

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Cokelet, Bradford

• Ethics
• authenticity
• disability
• identity
• self-destruction
• self-love
• value

Statement dc:rights

• This item is protected by copyright and unless otherwise specified the copyright of this thesis/dissertation is held by the author.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

https://www.proquest.com/LegacyDocView/DISSNUM/31839841

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:kuscholarworks.ku.edu:1808/38156