Demodernization - A Future in the Past

Demodernization is a growing trend observed in many once modern civilized countries, characterized by the decline of civil nationalism and the rise of tribal, ethnic, and confessional conflict. This phenomenon is manifested in images of medical doctors driving taxis, architects selling beer on street corners, and scientific institutes closed down amid rusting carcasses of industrial plants. Seventeen scholars offer their views on demodernization in the book, divided into three parts dedicated to conceptual debates and historical and contemporary cases.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 580 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: ibidem-Verlag, Jessica Haunschild u Christian Schon

At the dawn of the twenty-first century, a distressing phenomenon emerged in numerous once-civilized nations. Images of medical doctors operating taxis, architects hawking beer on street corners, and scientific institutes abandoned amidst rusting carcasses of industrial plants became commonplace. In many of these countries, long-standing neighbors turned on each other, driven by newly discovered differences in religion, language, or origin. Civil nationalism gave way to tribal, ethnic, and confessional conflicts. Rational arguments of geopolitical nature were replaced by claims of self-righteousness and moral superiority. These snapshots are not mere coincidences. They are manifestations of a phenomenon known as demodernization, which can be observed from the banks of the Neva to the banks of the Euphrates, from the deserts of Central Asia to the English countryside, and even in the city of Detroit.

Demodernization is a growing trend today, but it also has a rich history. Seventeen scholars, including historians, philosophers, sociologists, and archaeologists, offer their well-substantiated perspectives on demodernization in this comprehensive book. The book is divided into three parts, each dedicated to conceptual debates as well as historical and contemporary cases. Within these sections, readers will find a wealth of empirical materials and conceptual insights that provide a multi-faceted approach to demodernization.

The first part of the book explores the theoretical foundations of demodernization. Scholars examine the historical roots of modernity, the factors that contributed to its emergence, and the ways in which it has shaped societies around the world. They explore the tensions between traditional values and modern institutions, the challenges posed by globalization, and the ways in which technology and social media have transformed the way we communicate and interact.

The second part of the book delves into historical and contemporary cases of demodernization. Scholars examine the rise of authoritarianism, the decline of democratic institutions, and the emergence of new forms of political and economic power. They explore the impact of colonialism, the Cold War, and the rise of neoliberalism on societies and cultures. They also examine the ways in which social movements, such as the Arab Spring and the Black Lives Matter movement, have challenged traditional power structures and demanded social and political change.

The third part of the book focuses on the future of demodernization. Scholars offer predictions and insights into the potential trends and challenges that may shape the world in the coming decades. They explore the potential for new forms of globalization, the role of technology in shaping society, and the ways in which societies can respond to the challenges posed by demodernization.

In conclusion, Demodernization: A Multi-faceted Approach to a Growing Trend is a vital resource for anyone interested in understanding the complex and multifaceted phenomenon of demodernization. This book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on demodernization, drawing on the expertise of seventeen scholars from diverse fields. It offers a wealth of empirical materials and conceptual insights that provide a multi-faceted approach to demodernization, enabling readers to gain a deeper understanding of this growing trend and its implications for our world.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 153 x 213 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783838211404