Hans Bertens' The Idea of the Postmodern is the first introductory overview of postmodernism to succeed in providing a witty and accessibile guide to the sometimes befuddling subject. In clear, straight forward, and always elegant prose, Bertens sets out the interdisciplinary aspects, the critical debates, the historical development and the key theorists of postmodernism. He also explains, in thoughtful and illuminating language, the relationship between postmodernism and poststructuralism, lucidly distinguishing modernism from postmodernism through an examination of the fields of architecture, visual arts, and photography. Emphasizing the importance played by heterogeneity and difference in postmodern culture, Bertens carefully and adroitly defines the characteristics of postmodernism at every turn of the page.
What is "deconstruction"? What authors are considered "postmodern novelists"? The Critical Dictionary of Postmodern Thought combines a series of 14 in-depth background chapters with a body of A-Z entries to create an authoritative, yet truly readable guide to the complex world of postmodernism. Following full-length articles on Postmodernism and philosophy, politics, feminism, lifesyles, television, and other postmodern essentials, readers will find a wide ramge of alphabetically-organized entries on the people, terms and theories connected with postmodernism.
The second edition of this intellectually and practically engaging book, includes a valuable new section on justice and updated material throughout. While integrating the insights of ancient, modern and postmodern political thought, Thiele offers a thorough exploration of the art and craft of political theory.
"This is essential reading for those interested in philosophy, theology, and religious and cultural studies. This is an ideal introduction to the key issues for theology in its encounter with post-modernity." "This much-needed volume is a valuable guide through the often-murky waters of postmodern theology." Theologians have responded in many different ways to the challenges posed by theories of postmodernity. Kevin J. Vanhoozer addresses the issue directly in an introductory survey of what "talk about God" might mean in a postmodern age.
