What does Authentic really mean?

Today, everyone is striving for something truly "authentic." But, what does that mean? Authentic.

For a lot of people, I think, it means some kind of unattainable experience that simply doesn't exist anymore.

I recently moved to Hawaii, and there's a lot of talk about the "real Hawaii." At least among the tourists. What are they saying? What do they mean?

In one sense, I think that they want to be a part of Hawaiian culture. Not something watered down for their enjoyment. So, when they go to the Luau at the hotel, they feel disappointed. This isn't "real" Hawaii, this is just a tourist attraction.

But, does that Hawaii really exist? Europeans have been in Hawaii for hundreds of years. Their culture, both deliberately and unconsciously, has been folded into the so-called melting pot. So-called "authentic" Hawaiian culture, the one that existed before European contact, has been, unfortunately, relegated to museums and history books.

Sure, there are organizations that do great work trying to preserve the culture. And, there are lots of people here who still speak Hawaiian. But, that hula dancer you see at the Luau, drives a Honda and shops for groceries at Whole Foods, just like you.

Next week, I'll look at the question of authenticity as it relates to Italian culture.
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