"Manifest" has emerged as a significant word in 2024, captivating the attention of both celebrities and the general public. Pop star Dua Lipa and gymnast Simone Biles have played a crucial role in popularizing this term. On the Cambridge Dictionary website, the word was looked up nearly 130,000 times this year, making it one of the most-viewed words of the year.

Unraveling the Mysterious World of "Manifest"

Historical Evolution of "Manifest"

The word "manifest" has a rich history. In the 14th century, English poet Geoffrey Chaucer spelled it as "manyfest", with its oldest sense being an adjective meaning "easily noticed or obvious". During the mid-1800s, this adjective sense was used in US politics in the context of "manifest destiny", emphasizing the belief that American settlers were destined to expand across North America. Geoffrey Chaucer also used the verb "manifest" to mean "to show something clearly, through signs or actions". For example, in William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice", it is used as an adjective in the line "For it appears, by manifest proceeding, that … thou hast contrived against the very life of the defendant."

Today, the verb is still frequently used in this way. People can manifest their dissatisfaction, and symptoms of an illness can manifest themselves. Lack of confidence in a company can also manifest through a fall in share price. The meaning of making something clear is reflected in the related noun "manifesto", which is a "written statement of the beliefs, aims, and policies of an organisation, especially a political party".

Celebrity Influence on "Manifest"

Pop star Dua Lipa spoke earlier this year about manifesting her headline slot at the Glastonbury Festival. This brought significant attention to the term and led to its increased usage. The idea of manifesting success has gained tremendous popularity, especially during the pandemic on TikTok, with billions of views. One popular method is the 3-6-9 method, which involves writing down one's wishes three times in the morning, six times in the afternoon, and nine times before bed. However, this procedure promotes obsessive and compulsive behavior with no discernible benefits.

While prominent celebrities have been openly "manifesting" their success, it is important to understand the difference between the power of positive thinking and moving reality with one's mind. Positive thinking, self-affirmation, and goal-setting have been proven to have value. Believing in oneself, bringing a positive attitude, and setting realistic goals can lead to real change. But the idea of manifesting wealth, love, and power can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment.

Scientific Perspective on "Manifest"

Dr. Sander van der Linden, author of "The Psychology of Misinformation" and professor of social psychology at Cambridge University, cautions that the idea of manifesting success has no scientific validity. He refers to it as "magical thinking" or the general illusion that specific mental rituals can change the world around us.

There is good research on the value of positive thinking and goal-setting. People who believe in themselves and bring a positive attitude are more likely to achieve their goals. However, it is crucial to understand that these are based on real actions and efforts in the real world, not on wishful thinking. Manifesting may give people a false sense of control, but it does not actually change reality.