About the book
The concepts of modernity and modernism are amongst the most controversial and vigorously debated in contemporary philosophy and cultural theory. In this intervention, Fredric Jameson—perhaps the most influential and persuasive theorist of postmodernity—excavates and explores these notions in a fresh and illuminating manner.
The extraordinary revival of discussions of modernity, as well as of new theories of artistic modernism, demands attention in its own right. It seems clear that the (provisional) disappearance of alternatives to capitalism plays its part in the universal attempt to revive ‘modernity’ as a social ideal. Yet the paradoxes of the concept illustrate its legitimate history and suggest some rules for avoiding its misuse as well.
In this major interpretation of the problematic, Jameson concludes that both concepts are tainted, but nonetheless yield clues as to the nature of the phenomena they purported to theorize. His judicious and vigilant probing of both terms—which can probably not be banished at this late date—helps us clarify our present political and artistic situations.
Editions of A Singular Modernity
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9781859846742
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781781680223
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781859844502
- EBook
- ISBN 9781781680346
Read an Excerpt
The concepts of modernity and modernism are amongst the most controversial and vigorously debated in contemporary philosophy and cultural theory. In this intervention, Fredric Jameson—perhaps the most influential and persuasive theorist of postmodernity—excavates and explores these notions in a fresh and illuminating manner.
The extraordinary revival of discussions of modernity, as well as of new theories of artistic modernism, demands attention in its own right. It seems clear that the (provisional) disappearance of alternatives to capitalism plays its part in the universal attempt to revive ‘modernity’ as a social ideal. Yet the paradoxes of the concept illustrate its legitimate history and suggest some rules for avoiding its misuse as well.
In this major interpretation of the problematic, Jameson concludes that both concepts are tainted, but nonetheless yield clues as to the nature of the phenomena they purported to theorize. His judicious and vigilant probing of both terms—which can probably not be banished at this late date—helps us clarify our present political and artistic situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Singular Modernity about?
The concepts of modernity and modernism are amongst the most controversial and vigorously debated in contemporary philosophy and cultural theory. In this intervention, Fredric Jameson—perhaps the most influential and persuasive theorist of postmodernity—excavates and explores these notions in a fresh and illuminating manner.
The extraordinary revival of discussions of modernity, as well as of new theories of artistic modernism, demands attention in its own right. It seems clear that the (provisional) disappearance of alternatives to capitalism plays its part in the universal attempt to revive ‘modernity’ as a social ideal. Yet the paradoxes of the concept illustrate its legitimate history and suggest some rules for avoiding its misuse as well.
In this major interpretation of the problematic, Jameson concludes that both concepts are tainted, but nonetheless yield clues as to the nature of the phenomena they purported to theorize. His judicious and vigilant probing of both terms—which can probably not be banished at this late date—helps us clarify our present political and artistic situations.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in A Singular Modernity?
Philosophy and Religion > Philosophy > Topics in philosophy > Social and political philosophy > Critical theory
Where can I read a sample of A Singular Modernity?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781859846742
Is A Singular Modernity part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series Radical Thinkers
Who is/are the Author/s of the book A Singular Modernity?
Fredric Jameson
Who is the Publisher of the book A Singular Modernity?
Verso Books
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
A Singular Modernity is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781859846742) and paperback(ISBN 9781781680223) and paperback(ISBN 9781859844502) and ebook(ISBN 9781781680346)
Where can I buy A Singular Modernity online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy A Singular Modernity?