Modernism/Postmodernism

Modernism can be described as modern ideas, practical application, or character. The term itself describes broadly a set of cultural tendencies and number of associated cultural movements, this was due to large changes to western society at the time (1880s-1930s). The term encompasses traditional forms of art, architecture, literature, music, religion and social organisation, that were seen as becoming outdated in a modernising world.

Postmodernism like its predecessor also encompasses art, architecture, music and other cultural traits. Postmodernism is seen as an international departure from the modernist approaches that had been previously dominated. Postmodernism is percieved to be a new facet on contemporary culture, rejecting the objective truth and cultural tendencies. It finds the use of sharp classifications to be unacceptable, for instant, white versus black or straight versus gay. Postmodernism is a rejection of the modern, opposing scientific mentality of being objective and progress associated with enlightenment.

Modernism and postmodernism are both seen as either cultural projects or a set of ways to view the world. Postmodernism can be seen as an academic movement, which was a reaction to modernism in the humanities. Modernism alternatively is often associated with identity, unit, authority, and certainty. Postmodernism is often associated with difference, plurality and scepticism.