Authenticity Quote by Stephen Batchelor
““The root of all inauthentic manifestations of being-with-others is the attitude of self-concern. It is in this state of mind that, either consciously or unconsciously, we reduce the central aim of all value and meaning to the accomplishment of the welfare of ourselves alone. This attitude can operate very deviously even in the person who outwardly appears to be thoroughly altruistic. Despite all magnanimous commitments and generous deeds, it silently measures the ultimate worth of these things in terms of the personal satisfaction that results from them. It is the root of inauthentic being-with because it is primarily responsible in preventing our essential being-with-others from full and genuine expression.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of Happiness, Stephen Batchelor, 2018
Self‑concern masks true altruism, turning all actions into self‑service and preventing genuine connection with others.
In simple terms: Self‑interest hides behind kindness, blocking real togetherness.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate selfless presence.
Themes
authenticity
relationships
ego
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- counseling
- spiritual practice
- community building
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
existentialism
self‑concern
interpersonal ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What does genuine generosity feel like?
- How can we recognize hidden self‑interest?
A Different Perspective
Self‑concern can be unconscious and hard to detect.
![“Our personal identities are socially situated. We are where we live, eat, work, and make love. [...] Our sense of identity is in large measure conferred on us by others in the ways they treat or mistreat us, recognize or ignore us, praise us or punish us. Some people make us timid and shy; others…” quote by Philip G. Zimbardo](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/130/philip-g-zimbardo-46937_identity_our-personal-identities-are-socially-sit_2665083.jpg)
![“[Mindfulness] is not concerned with anything transcendent or divine. It serves as an antidote to theism, a cure for sentimental piety, a scalpel for excising the tumor of metaphysical belief. (130)” quote by Stephen Batchelor](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/04b/stephen-batchelor-5328_antidote_mindfulness-is-not-concerned-with-anythi_151409.jpg)
