Modern vs Postmodern Society: A Comparative Analysis

The text presents a detailed comparison between modernity and postmodernity, examining their key characteristics and societal implications. The transformation from modern to postmodern society has brought significant changes in economic structures, cultural dynamics, and social identity formation.

Definition: Postmodernity refers to the contemporary era that has succeeded modernity, characterized by skepticism towards universal truths and increased globalization.

Example: The shift from manufacturing-based economies to service-oriented ones exemplifies the transition to postmodernity, with most UK goods now being manufactured abroad.

Highlight: McLuhan's concept of the "Global Village" emphasizes how modern communication technologies have eliminated traditional space and time boundaries.

Quote: Thompson (1995) argues that "global media products are modified by local cultures which results in various new hybrid forms."

Vocabulary: Meta-narratives are overarching theories or stories that claim to explain and give meaning to various aspects of life and society.

The text also explores Lyotard's perspective on the relativity of knowledge, though it points out an inherent contradiction in his theory. The role of international organizations like NATO, EU, and UN in shaping the postmodern world order is acknowledged, alongside the impact of social networks in facilitating political movements like the Arab Spring.