Authentic self Quote by Yuval Noah Harari
““However, over the last few decades the life sciences have reached the conclusion that this liberal story is pure mythology. The single authentic self is as real as the eternal soul, Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. If I look really deep within myself, the seeming unity that I take for granted dissolves into a cacophony of conflicting voices, none of which is ‘my true self’. Humans aren’t individuals. They are ‘dividuals’.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Sapiens Lecture, 2020
The notion of a single, immutable self is a myth; we are composed of many conflicting inner voices, making us “dividuals” rather than isolated individuals.
In simple terms: Self is fragmented, not singular.
Embrace inner multiplicity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- therapy
- team dynamics
- creative collaboration
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile conflicting inner voices?
- Can multiplicity be a strength?
The idea may overlook the value of a coherent narrative self for decision‑making.