POSTMODERNISM, MODERNISM & THEISM
The death of truths postulations comparative chart that analyzes modernistic, theistic and post modernistic thought may be helpful, at least at a cursory level as these theological issues are examined. The greatest difficulty in utilizing the comparative chart is the brevity of the presentation of the relevant subject matter under consideration. Posturing the three antithetically compatible suppositions with the intention of contrast between the variant views in relation to human nature, freewill (autonomy), reason and futuristic progress are advanced. Comparisons are then formulated for distinctive consideration. Attempting to encapsulate complex spans of information can be daunting. However, the attempt is laudable.
With that said, it is important to note the variables values that surface through the comparative analysis. Human nature’s distinctions are enlightening. Viewed as ambivalent, mechanistic or divine expression; all hold intrinsic value to their respective systems. At the very least, a cursory nod of approval is given. A difficult point of exclusion exists in this charts analysis. The problem of sin is not addressed within the circumference of human nature, although it may be wise to analyze in this context.
Free will’s assertion of autonomy equally applies to this venue of deliberation. Modernism and theism share much common ground in their respective approaches to the issue of freedom. In both expressions, mankind is in possession of attributionally directive faculties, although theism views this autonomy as functionally operational in a reduced capacity. Xenos applies the standards of Calvinistic theological assumptions in this matter of faith and freedom. Liberty is appropriately restricted to punishments responsibility, not grace’s acceptance. The perception of illusional autonomy may catapult theism closer to postmodernism’s categorical denial of freedom’s enjoinment even though the basis of this assumption begins with variant instigating points in the conversation. Theism postulates restriction due to an arbitrary act on deity’s part. Postmodernists assert freedom is an illusion that manifests in governance communally with societal pressures creating the composite moldings that people must adhere to within its structural boundaries behaviorally for comportment purposes. Society and socially enacted cultural moors produces the imagined limitations that people operate though in conductive contracts among societal structures.
Reason and progress create another substitute set of alternatives for consumption. Modernists and theists again share significant assumptions in this point of procedural discussion. Theists restrict the use of reason, however, subordinating rational thought to the twin forces of faith and revelation. The inclusion of these two additional posits advance theistic usage of reason into an ethereal realm that transcends the sensate controlled materialistic confines of human spatial experiences. To the postmodernist, reason is an illusion. Not because it doesn’t exist however.
The postmodern rejection of reason is based on the logical assumption that all humanistic rationalizing endeavors are tainted with extrinsic biases contained within those who attempt to think rationally. The effect of internal error in the deliberative process of function that relates to the process of rational thought is put forth in the postmodern way of thinking at this place of cross roads. The Christian postulation of sins dysfunctional effects could be easily inserted into this point of conversation. The postmodern philosophical bent and the Christian perspective agree on the issue of intellects exiguous substance.
Progressive achievement along social and technological exigencies formulates a powerful alliance within this same prism. Modernists and theists observe advances as being beneficial within certain conditional expressions. The theist doesn’t appear to assume a great deal of optimism for human acceleration in this mode. Pessimistic optimism may be a correct operative in defining the theistic outlook. Postmodernists view progress as an emotionally loaded word that connotes oppressive behavioralisms among many cultures that have exhibited oppressive traits of injurious action against those who were in a position of vulnerability for exploitation. The postmodernist and theist agree on certain terms concerning progress. When social injustices are righted, both camps can be seen as proper expressions that construe these activities with a correct application of non-colonial extravagances that can become beneficial sociologically.
