In the heart of authenticity, even the trees dream in colors unseen.

"Authentic" is the top word of 2023, according to America's oldest dictionary.

My thought on "Embracing Tradition in a Digital Age"

In a time where our lives are increasingly connected with digital advancements and AI, Merriam-Webster's selection of "Authentic" as the word of the year resonates deeply. This choice reflects a substantial increase in online searches, underscoring a collective need for genuineness amidst a sea of digital transformations, virtual experiences, and let's face it: a ton of made up stuff.

As a society, we stand at a pivotal crossroads, navigating through layers of propaganda and fabricated realities that span the globe. In my podcast Redefining Society, I often explore the necessity of progress in all forms and shapes, while emphasizing the importance of grounding our society in reality and staying true to the core values that define our cultures, traditions, and most of all our humanity, or what makes us human anyway... which is now more than ever a topic for profound ethical conversations.

Today, "Authentic" is not just a word; it's a testament to our collective desire to maintain a connection with what is real and tangible. In these times of profound digital change involving generative AI and virtual experiences, the prominence of "Authentic" is a reminder of our innate need for truth and sincerity.

There's a beautiful harmony in embracing both worlds – the exhilaration for what's digital and #futuristic, and the appreciation for what's analog and, yes, perceived as more authentic (up for discussion 🤔). It's about finding balance and ensuring that our digital advancements enhance rather than replace the authentic experiences that form the essence of our human experience.

As we continue to explore this intersection of technology and society, let's remember the value of authenticity. It's more than just a word; it's a guiding principle that can help us navigate the complexities of our modern world.

Read more about the significance of this word choice here.

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Sincerely, Marco Ciappelli

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Marco Ciappelli is the host of the Redefining Society Podcast, part of the ITSPmagazine Podcast Network—which he co-founded with his good friend Sean Martin—where you may just find some of these topics being discussed. You can also learn more about Marco on his personal website: marcociappelli.com