From Postmodernism to Metamodernism: Paul Anleitner
Apr 3, 2025
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Cultural theologian Paul Anleitner, host of Deep Talks: Cultural Theology, dives into the evolution from postmodernism to metamodernism. He discusses how films like 'Fight Club' and 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' reflect this cultural shift from cynicism to a hopeful search for meaning. Anleitner also highlights the surge of sincerity in narratives, exemplified by characters like Ted Lasso. Additionally, he analyzes the unexpected resurgence of the band Creed among Gen Z, showcasing a cultural move towards genuine appreciation over irony.
Metamodernism emerges as a cultural response to postmodernism's cynicism, emphasizing sincere engagement with narratives and truth.
Cultural artifacts like 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' illustrate a shift towards authenticity, contrasting with the disillusionment of postmodern storytelling.
The re-examination of heroic figures in films such as 'Top Gun: Maverick' promotes inclusive representations, moving beyond traditional binary moral frameworks.
Deep dives
Understanding Metamodernism
Metamodernism describes a cultural movement that emerges following the waning of postmodernism. This concept acknowledges that while postmodernism has not completely died, its relevance and efficacy seem to have become stale. Metamodernism seeks to engage with culture, storytelling, and worldviews in a way that recognizes the limitations of postmodern irony, proposing a more sincere engagement with truth and meaning. It reflects a shift where individuals desire narratives that offer hope and authenticity, moving beyond a purely cynical view of the world.
The Legacy of Postmodernism
Postmodernism has been characterized by skepticism toward grand narratives and a critical approach to truth, most notably informed by figures like Nietzsche. This movement cultivated an intense irony and cynicism in cultural storytelling, viewing established stories and ideas as tools of power and control. The narrative pivot point is often linked to the post-World War II era, where disillusionment with traditional stories became prominent across various cultural platforms, leading to a questioning of ethics and authority. As postmodern critiques proliferated, they often left behind a void of meaning, contributing to a cultural landscape rife with cynicism.
Cultural Examples of Transition
Various cultural artifacts reflect this shift from postmodern cynicism to metamodern sincerity, with films like 'Fight Club' and 'The Matrix' serving as pivotal examples. These films portray disenfranchised protagonists engaging in journeys that unravel societal expectations, ultimately leading to a call for deconstruction. In contrast, more recent works like 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' and the first season of 'Ted Lasso' highlight a longing for sincerity amid postmodern irony. Such narratives resonate with audiences by juxtaposing sincere portrayals against a backdrop of cultural skepticism, offering an escape from deconstructive tendencies.
Redefining Heroism in Modern Narratives
The portrayal of traditional heroic figures has been re-examined in modern narratives, notably in films like 'Top Gun: Maverick.' This film refrains from demonizing characters based on identity and instead emphasizes aspirational traits, providing a model of leadership that is both relatable and virtuous. Unlike previous iterations where heroes were scrutinized under a postmodern lens, this narrative allows for a more dynamic and inclusive representation of heroism. By not framing characters in a binary moral context, these stories become more resonant and aspirational for contemporary audiences.
The Cultural Shift Towards Sincerity
In recent cultural discourse, there has been a notable resurgence in valuing sincerity within music and personal expression, as evidenced by the renewed popularity of bands like Creed. This trend departs from the postmodern irony that once characterized their public perception, leading to a renaissance of appreciation for their music framed as 'post-ironic.' This evolution signifies a shift towards embracing authentic emotions amidst a culture saturated with skepticism and critique. Such movements illustrate a collective exhaustion with cynicism, encouraging individuals to embrace what they genuinely enjoy without fear of societal judgment.
Paul Anleitner is a cultural theologian that writes and speaks on the intersection of religion, culture, philosophy, and science. He is the host of Deep Talks: Cultural Theology with Paul Anleitner, a YouTube channel and podcast featuring long-form discussions with leading voices and lectures on the cultural theology. Register for the Exiles and Babylon conference: theologyintheraw.com
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