International Studies Compendium Project

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Comment on this article   Although the term “postmodern” tends to be somewhat resistant to precise definition and conceptual delineation, there is a distinction between “postmodernism” and “postmodernity.” The latter is usually understood as a stage of late modernity or late capitalism ( Jameson 1991 ) that follows modernity. The concept of postmodernity implies a break with modernity, but more specifically with the project of Enlightenment. Thus “postmodernism” is perceived as a theoretical trend that attempts to unsettle a number of key concepts associated with the Enlightenment, such as grand narratives of progress ( Lyotard 1984 ), a linear unfolding of history, and traditional conceptions of reason and rationality (see Macey 2001 ). Postmodernism is mainly characterized by a rejection of foundationalism, entailing a deep suspicion of all intrinsic truths and assumptions upon which modern knowledge is built and from which it draws its legitimacy. Generally conceived, postmodernist accounts attempt to expose the contingency of all knowledge, the power relations that underpin modern narratives of progress, reason, and history, and the social, political and economic structures that are implicated in the perpetuation and legitimizing of such relations. It is important to distinguish here between late modernity and postmodernity. Some authors argue that there is an important distinction ... log in or subscribe to read full text