Postmodernism

• What does post-modernity mean?

  A cultural and intellectual movement questioning traditional beliefs and values.
• What are metanarratives?

  Broad theories of society
• What does Lyotard mean when he refers to being critical of metanarratives?

  • There are no truths or theories for society
  • Feminists and Marxists assert broad claims when there is no explanation for the way in which this society operates
• Describe 2 key differences between modernity and post-modernity

  MODERNITY:

  1. Fixed identities - people knew who they were meant to be
  2. Complete shared norms and values

  POST-MODERNITY:

  1. Unfixed identities - changing identities
  2. Less shared norms and values
• What are 6 key characteristics of postmodernism?

  1. Choice - Norms, values, cultures and identities were chosen
  2. Change - Society is always fluctuating and transitioning
  3. Chaos - There is a lot of order and stability
  4. Challenge - There is a lot of disagreements
  5. Consumerism
  6. (Un)Certainty - Society is diverse and full of difference / unpredictability