Difference between modernity, postmodernity and transmodernity
La evolution of thought Humanity has gone through different stages throughout history, each with its own characteristics and approaches. Three of the most significant are the modernity, postmodernity and transmodernity. Understanding the differences between these philosophical currents allows us to have a broader vision of how our way of understanding reality and knowledge has changed.
Modernity: reason as the central axis
Modernity emerged in the 17th century and extended until the mid-20th century. During this period, the reason It becomes the fundamental principle to understand the universe and the human being. Modernity is characterized by trust in science and progress, as well as the search for universal and absolute truths.
Some of the most prominent thinkers of modernity are René Descartes, who proposed the Cartesian method based on methodical doubt, and Immanuel Kant, who developed the idea of the categorical imperative and the moral autonomy of the individual. Modernity is also associated with the emergence of nation-states and the consolidation of the capitalist system.
Postmodernity: questioning the great stories
Starting in the second half of the 20th century, a new paradigm known as postmodernity begins to take shape. This current is characterized by the rejection of absolute truths and distrust towards great stories or metanarratives that sought to explain the totality of reality.
Postmodernism questions the idea of linear progress and the supposed superiority of Western reason. thinkers like Jean Francois Lyotard y Jacques Derrida They raise the need to deconstruct dominant discourses and value the diversity of perspectives and experiences. Postmodernity is also associated with the emergence of new social movements and the vindication of marginalized identities.
Transmodernity: towards an integrative synthesis
In recent decades, a new proposal known as transmodernity has emerged. This current seeks to overcome the limitations of both modernity and postmodernity, integrating their "positive aspects" into a broader and more complex vision of reality.
Transmodernity recognizes the importance of the reason, but it also values other forms of knowledge such as intuition, emotion and spirituality. Likewise, it promotes a intercultural dialogue and the construction of a global ethic based on solidarity and respect for diversity. Authors like Henry Dussel and Leonardo Boff have contributed to the development of this perspective.
Compare the three philosophical currents
As a summary, we can establish some key differences between modernity, postmodernity and transmodernity:
- Modernity focuses on reason and the search for universal truths, while postmodernism questions these principles and values the diversity of perspectives.
- Modernity trusts in progress and science, while postmodernism distrusts grand stories and totalizing narratives.
- Transmodernity seeks to integrate the positive aspects of both currents, promoting a intercultural dialogue and a global ethics based on solidarity.
Each of these currents has left a significant mark on our way of understanding the knowledge, society and the human being. Understanding their differences allows us to have a more complete and nuanced vision of the complexity of contemporary thought.
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