What is “place authenticity”? It’s that sense you get when a location makes you feel true to yourself. A powerful, sensuous localism

Photo by Eugenio Mazzone on Unsplash

fascinating piece from Psyche, reporting on research into the concept of “place authenticity”. We’re interested in whatever can resource people’s commitment and investment in their communities. An opening extract below:

Imagine visiting an old, indie bookshop nestled in a quiet corner of the town square. The smell of aged paper, the creak of wooden floors, and the personalised recommendations from the owner create an atmosphere that feels intimate and real.

This bookshop seems authentic and personal, in contrast to a charmless chain bookstore in a commercial mall, with its standardised layout and mass-produced offerings…

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