Authenticity as Performativity on Social Media

Authenticity is a valuable concept on social media, but this book argues that it is an unrepeatable temporary interval rather than an achievable ideal. It applies a post-structural lens of performativity to analyze the resurgence of the authentic as a cultural trend and questions whether society should present it as a cultural ideal. The book provides a working definition for future practice and encourages readers to reappraise authenticity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Authenticity is a highly valued concept in the realm of social media, yet its scrutiny has been questioned. This book offers an alternative perspective on authentic social media practice, suggesting that it is an unrepeatable and temporary interval rather than an achievable ideal. Through a post-structural lens of performativity, the author analyzes the resurgence of authenticity as a cultural trend and raises concerns about the professionalization of social media, which has led to the emergence of a neoliberal authentic that equates productivity with self-actualization.

The book challenges the societal idealization of this neoliberal authenticity and recontextualizes it within various social media practices. These practices include authentic self-representation, authentic influence, and the impact of influencer culture. Additionally, meme production is explored as an attempt to find authenticity. The book serves as a thought-provoking exploration of authenticity, inviting readers to reevaluate this concept and providing a working definition for future practice.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031121470
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022