Post Modern Life
1. What is “modernity” and why is it challenging? What is the meaning of “post-modern?”
2. Define and summarize the four dimensions of sociocultural life.
3. Explain the dilemma and false hopes associated with fragmentation of consciousness.
4. Discuss whether and how a family might escape the bondage of commodities.
5. Explain the possible reconstruction of community in relationship to family life.
6. Explain the importance of revitalized communication and consciousness?
7. What support structures are helpful to ensure solid family life? Describe and discuss.
8. Traditionally, most churches have taken a very hard stand on the subject of divorce and remarriage, even forbidding remarriage and denying membership to people with “tainted” marital backgrounds. Discuss how churches as communities should respond to divorce, both among their members and those seeking membership.
Sample Solution
Modernity is a concept that refers to the changes in social, economic, and political systems during the 18th-21st centuries that have led to increased industrialization, technology, and scientific advancement (Ritzer & Stepnisky , 2020). It is characterized by individualism, rational thought processes , and a shift away from traditional values towards new forms of self – determination. This has created both opportunities as well as challenges for individuals and societies alike.
The main challenge associated with modernity is its promotion of an “us vs them” mentality when it comes to various aspects of life such as religion , culture or politics. The emphasis on individualism can lead to selfishness , isolationism , and alienation within communities (Ritzer & Stepnisky ,2020). Additionally, it can create disparities between rich and poor nations which leads to further economic inequality globally.
Postmodernism is a reaction against many of the ideals associated with modernity such as rationalism, hierarchy and structure (Denzin et al., 2017). It emphasizes subjective experience over objective fact ; rejects categorical truths ; values diversity ; accepts relativity in knowledge ; encourages critical thinking about accepted norms ; seeks pluralistic solutions instead of absolutist ones; embraces uncertainty rather than certainty; and celebrates creativity over conformity (Denzin et al., 2017 ).
