Alessendro Ferrara, in this challenging and controversial study, argues that we can show how the problem of validity lies in modernity's construction of a form of validity that depended upon abstract, metaphysical notions of judgement removed from useful example. Ferrara's pioneering argument is that authenticity must become reflective if it is to provide a useful measure for validity. Only a reflective authenticity can build on the postmodern insight of value pluralism without repeating the well-worn tenets of difference, diversity and anti-foundationalism. Then we will find a universal basis to judgement and validity that is lacking in the postmodern emphasis on private, self-created identities.