Last Updated: 2023/06/16
Modernity Studies
22 August 2017 Last updated
Overview of the course
The basic framework of our contemporary society consists of three distinct realms, the techno-economic structure, the polity, and the culture. The ruling principles of these three realms, such as functionary rationality, the idea of equality, and expression & realization of “self,” originated in Western Europe with the arrival of the modern period. Today, however, these principles are proved to be discordant and are being shaken to their roots along with the progress of globalization. This situation demands a re-examination of the meaning of “modernity” and an accurate reading of just where the world is (should be) heading in the ongoing upheaval. The Modernity Studies Group covers a wide range of disciplines from social thought, economic thought,and political thought to aesthetics, literature and visual arts. Through careful analysis of the prevailing principles of the three realms of the modern world,we aim to cultivate firmly grounded capabilities of cogitation that are required for tackling actual issues in our society.
Students’ research themes | Master’s program: M. Foucault and Herculine Barbin, Peter Berger’s idea of “everyday” and religion, Alfred Schutz’s idea of “relevance”. Doctoral program: Ernst Junger, “technology,” Niklas Luhmann, social system theory, Herbert Spencer, modernization of Japanese society, D. H.Lawrence, eco-criticism |
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Teaching staff | Keiko ISHIDA, Associate Professor Naritoshi UENO, Professor Shigeru CHO, Professor Rie MATSUYA, Professor |