"E Unibus Pluram" means "from one, many." This phrase is a deliberate, solipsistic twist on the traditional American motto, "E Pluribus Unum," which translates to "out of many, one."
Understanding the Phrase's Origin and Meaning
The phrase "E Unibus Pluram" gained prominence as the title of a significant 1990 essay by author David Foster Wallace. His work often explored themes of modern media, culture, and identity, and this title perfectly encapsulated the essay's critical examination of television's influence.
- "E Unibus Pluram" (From one, many): This inversion suggests a scenario where a singular entity or source (like a television screen or an individual's consciousness) proliferates into numerous, perhaps fragmented, experiences or identities. It carries a solipsistic implication, meaning it emphasizes the self as the sole existent, or at least the sole knowable, entity, and how reality might be perceived as originating from or projected by that single self.
- "E Pluribus Unum" (Out of many, one): In contrast, the traditional U.S. motto, E Pluribus Unum, symbolizes the unity formed from diverse states, peoples, or beliefs. It reflects the idea of a cohesive nation forged from a multitude of individual parts. You can learn more about its historical significance on resources like the official U.S. Mint website.
Comparative Analysis: E Unibus Pluram vs. E Pluribus Unum
To better understand the distinct philosophical underpinnings of these two phrases, consider the following comparison:
| Feature | E Unibus Pluram | E Pluribus Unum |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | From one, many | Out of many, one |
| Origin | David Foster Wallace (1990) | U.S. motto (since 1776) |
| Conceptual Flow | Divergence, fragmentation | Convergence, unification |
| Implication | Solipsism, self-generation, multiplicity from a singular source (e.g., media's influence on the self) | Unity from diversity, collective identity, national cohesion |
| Context | Critique of modern media and culture, individual perception | National identity, political philosophy |
The Solipsistic Twist
Wallace's choice of "E Unibus Pluram" as a title highlights a profound shift in modern society. While "E Pluribus Unum" championed the idea of many individuals coming together to form a strong collective, "E Unibus Pluram" suggests the opposite: a single source (like the pervasive influence of television or media) creating a multitude of individual, often isolated, experiences or perceptions. This "solipsistic play" suggests that the external world, particularly as presented through media, can shape and multiply individual realities, sometimes leading to a self-referential or isolated experience of reality rather than a shared, unified one.
