Authenticity: what does it mean for Asians to be authentic?

Online via zoom

Presenter: Magdalen Cheng 

Magdalen is fascinated by whether authenticity is a universal value and what it means for Asians to be authentic. Our modern understanding of authenticity is that it encourages us to be true to ourselves and express ourselves honestly and transparently. Yet, collectivistic values such as harmony and filial piety make it difficult for many Asians to express themselves honestly. Very often, in Asian cultures, expressing oneself in full honesty can lead to unpleasant consequences in the family, workplace or school. Magdalen will be sharing the day-to-day life of Singaporean millennials’ navigating having a voice in a collectivist society. She will posit that we can choose to be silent and remain authentic and will suggest that authenticity is not an ontic measurement, rather it is a part of our ontological existence.

She will talk with Alison for 45 minutes, there will be discussion in small breakout rooms then a Q & A for the last 30 minutes.

Can be booked as part of package of 4 conversations each Thursday in March or stand alone.

About the presenter

Magdalen Cheng is a Singapore-based existential-phenomenological psychotherapist and counsellor. She specialises in working with clients who are going through life transitions. She is currently completing a Doctorate in Psychotherapy and Counselling at the New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling, UK, and has a special interest in understanding how a western philosophy like existentialism could be useful in an Asian culture. Magdalen’s area of interest is in using hermeneutic phenomenology as a way of understanding people’s experiences. This eventually led to her research interest in the Singaporean millennial’s experience of authenticity. Magdalen also aspires to promote existential therapy in Singapore. On her days off, Magdalen hones her carpentry and ironmongery crafts, where she turns trash into treasure. 

CPD Hours: 
This event counts as 1.5 hours of category A CPD for PACFA’s membership renewal requirements

For full details regarding the event please go to the website.