Remember that “postmodern” fad? It wasn’t a fad…

I’ve asked many people what they think about postmodernism, and most don’t know much about it. In addition, most in my world (evangelical Christians) tend to have been given a negative view of it. Some even think that it came and then went around the turn of the millennium. Well, the fact is that postmodernism is not a fad, or just some cultural movement that will pass (or has passed) quickly. I strongly believe it’s something that is good to be familiar with. And because of that, like with many things, I am always on the lookout for easy, but thorough introductions to the subject.

Note: I don’t consider myself and kind of expert on the subject, but I am very fond of it.

Below on mp3s of a Theological Conference from 2007 that you will really enjoy if you have any interest in learning about it. The discussion consists of two current postmodern Christian philosophers discussing topic.

Here is why you want to listen to this:

1. They explain why postmodern does not = relativism.
2. They attempt to avoid as much “academic” language as  possible, because they were speaking to an audience that consisted mostly non-academic types (pastors, “lay-people”, etc – NOT other philosophers).
3. Having a basic understanding of postmodernism will give you great insight into my generation and those that are coming after me (I’m 26).
4. They explain how one of the huge benefits of postmodernism is that faith is becoming accepted in the study of philosophy again for the first time in centuries.
5. This will help in gaining understanding of both the reason and purpose of the emerging church. And way much of it’s criticism is from lack of understanding (not all of it of course)
6. They give a good overview of the entire history of philosophy leading up to postmodernism. Meaning, you don’t need to have any familiarity with the topic.
7. They explain how postmodernism didn’t start in the 1990’s. It has it’s roots in the early 1900’s and before, and has slowly progressed up to where it is now.
8. They are both brilliant, and I think they will give you an appreciation for studies such as theirs, if you don’t have one already.

 

2007 Theological, Philosophical Conversation (To download for PC – Right Click, and select “save link as” – for Mac – Ctrl+Click)

Session 1, part 1

http://media.libsyn.com/media/emergent/ep-2007-08-18-Caputo-1.mp3

Session 1, part 2

http://media.libsyn.com/media/emergent/ep-2007-08-28-Caputo-2.mp3

 

Both of these  podcasts are property of Emergent Village. http://www.emergentvillage.com/