Understanding
Post Modernism and Post Modern Thought
By
M.Moor MA
In
order to understand Post Modernism we must first understand Modernism.
Modernism
Modernism
is a comprehensive term for an international tendency or movement, arising in
the arts and architecture.
This tendency began in the last years of the nineteenth century.
As
a stylistic term Modernism contains and conceals a wide variety of different,
smaller movements across the arts. Many of these movements have theoretical
differences. However they do share an anti-representational underpinning.
For example in music Atonalism, in painting Cubism,
in poetry Fragmentation, and so on.
Modernism
tends to require a highly formal aesthetic and can often be seen as preserving
elitism by implication.
Modernism
I would argue in all its forms aims to open the 'doors of perception'.
It represents a radical shift in thought and concept, from the figurative
and literal to the abstract and fragmented. Modernism has clearly affected the
character of the twentieth century.
We
can view Modernism as both a platform for Post Modernism and as a form of
cultural elitism.
However its truly international nature complicates any over simplified
conclusion.
Post
Modernism differs
from Modernism in its commitment to a non-elitist, plural perspective.
While
Modernism's commitment is to 'modernity', Post Modernism is far less concerned
with 'modernity' as such.
Post
Modernism freely draws upon many aspects of 'modernity'.
However not exclusively, other philosophies and ideals are clearly
present. Post Modernism holds many positions simultaneously. It
reveres, rejects and encompasses Modernity.
Its commitment is to Pluralism.
In this respect we can see 'cultural relativism' as an influence.
Post
Modernism has an overarching ironic sensibility which often rejects the 'specific'
and may seem to lack specific aims. This has led to accusations that Post
Modernism lacks 'integrity' or is reactionary and may even constitute a 'dumbing
down' of western culture.
Post
Modernism suggested further reading.
Storey,
J(1993) An Introductory Guide to Cultural Theory and Popular Culture.
Harvester Wheatsheaf
Connor,
S(1989) Postmodernist Culture: An Introduction to Theories of the
Contemporary. Blackwell
·
Please note there is a good deal of
'up to date' information on the 'net'.
The ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art) has a website, this may be a good
starting point.
This is one I have found: http://broquard.tilted.com/postmodern/journal.html
If you find a website yourself and think it might be useful do let me know. However please be aware that some or all of the information may be questionable on some of these sites .... always double check the validity of your sources!
