Jason Ananda Josephson Storm, a professor of religion and science studies at Williams College, dives into his groundbreaking book on metamodernism. He explores the transition from modernity through postmodern critiques, offering a fresh perspective on religion, science, and society's complexity. The conversation highlights the urgent need for interdisciplinary discourse and redefines social constructs like politics and religion. Storm advocates for humility in knowledge formation and champions a more integrated understanding of our interconnected world.
Metamodernism, as articulated by Jason Storm, represents a progressive philosophical framework that integrates lessons from both modernity and postmodernity.
Storm critiques the simplicity of established binaries in Western philosophy, motivating a reevaluation of concepts associated with social constructs and human flourishing.
The podcast emphasizes the necessity for scholars to engage in a constructive reconstruction of ideas, aiming for higher clarity rather than mere deconstruction.
Recognizing knowledge as a collective endeavor encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and enriches academic discussions, breaking down silos within scholarship.
A compassionate approach to discourse is advocated, allowing for respectful discussions that prioritize shared values and the integration of diverse perspectives.
Deep dives
Introduction to Meta-Modernism
The discussion focuses on the concept of meta-modernism, proposed as a movement emerging after modernity and post-modernity. It emphasizes a constructive approach that consolidates the achievements of the previous movements while moving beyond their limitations. Jason Storm introduces his book, which explores the implications of this new paradigm on human thought and existence. This framework aims to facilitate deeper engagement with philosophical, social, and religious questions.
Engagement with Historical Philosophical Traditions
Storm critiques the dominant narratives of Western philosophy, particularly the overly simplistic binaries established between modernity and post-modernity. He argues that both movements have much to offer, but also have significant shortcomings that need reevaluation. The interplay of these historical philosophies is essential in contextualizing contemporary thought, as they inform the people's understanding of social constructs and human flourishing. Emphasizing the need for a broader perspective can enrich discussions in religious studies and beyond.
The Role of Deconstruction and Reconstruction
The podcast highlights the significance of deconstruction as a necessary, albeit temporary, phase in understanding complex ideas within religious studies. Storm advocates for a more constructive reconstruction of ideas rather than solely deconstructing them. The goal is to reach a higher level of clarity and meaning in discourse, allowing scholars and students alike to navigate the complexities of modern knowledge. This shift enables a more integrated approach to evaluating religious, social, and cultural constructs.
Challenges of Excessive Specialization
A major challenge in academia is hyper-specialization, which often leads to scholars losing touch with broader conversations and interdisciplinary connections. Storm proposes that there is a need for individuals to break out of their silos and engage with a more expansive understanding of their disciplines. This includes recognizing parallels across various fields and fostering collaborative environments for diverse ways of thinking. Through this approach, scholars can more effectively address the pressing questions facing society today.
Compassion and Empathy in Discourse
One essential aspect of meta-modernism is the focus on compassion and empathy in academic and public discourse. Storm posits that fostering an environment where differing viewpoints can be discussed respectfully is critical for progress. He cautions against falling into the trap of adversarial debates and encourages constructive dialogue that prioritizes shared values and understanding. This compassionate approach opens pathways for more inclusive engagement with diverse perspectives within religious studies and adjacent fields.
Knowledge as a Collective Enterprise
Storm underscores the importance of recognizing knowledge as a collective endeavor rather than an individualistic pursuit. This perspective encourages collaboration among scholars and emphasizes the interconnectedness of ideas across disciplines. The cultivation of knowledge within communities fosters richer discussions and leads to more profound insights. Acknowledging the shared responsibility for knowledge can help dismantle barriers between divergent viewpoints.
Addressing the Impact of Modern Capitalism
The podcast explores the consequences of modern capitalism on academic inquiry and public discourse. Storm notes that the pressures of consumerism can hinder the willingness to engage with complex ideas and foster superficial understandings. He advocates for deeper explorations of meaning and value, which can contribute to more thoughtful interactions within the community. Creating spaces for authentic dialogue can counteract the alienating effects of consumer culture.
Implications for Religious Traditions
Religious traditions play a crucial role in shaping discussions around flourishing and meaning in contemporary society. Storm argues that wisdom from religious and philosophical traditions offers valuable insights into ethical living and community building. By re-engaging with these legacies, scholars can contribute to a richer understanding of how values influence everyday life. This can help foster dialogue that integrates faith and critical inquiry.
Meta-Modernism as a Framework for Future Inquiry
The conversation positions meta-modernism as a useful framework for future academic inquiry. This approach encourages scholars to draw from both historical and contemporary ideas while remaining open to collaboration and dialogue. Storm believes that meta-modernism can address the weaknesses of previous intellectual frameworks by emphasizing compassion, empathy, and the interconnectedness of knowledge. The ongoing quest for human flourishing can serve as a guiding principle in academic discussions and societal engagement.
I loved this conversation. Once I heard that Jason was going to be releasing a book exploring the future of theory, I was interested... after reading it, I was PUMPED. Metamodernismis spectacular. This rather nerdy and cross-disciplinary conversation was so much fun. Hopefully, you will enjoy it and share it.
"For decades, scholars have been calling into question the universality of disciplinary objects and categories. The coherence of defined autonomous categories—such as religion, science, and art—has collapsed under the weight of postmodern critiques, calling into question the possibility of progress and even the value of knowledge. Jason Ananda Josephson Storm aims to radicalize and move beyond these deconstructive projects to offer a path forward for the humanities and social sciences using a new model for theory he calls metamodernism.
Metamodernism works through the postmodern critiques and uncovers the mechanisms that produce and maintain concepts and social categories. In so doing, Storm provides a new, radical account of society’s ever-changing nature—what he calls a “Process Social Ontology”—and its materialization in temporary zones of stability or “social kinds.” Storm then formulates a fresh approach to philosophy of language by looking beyond the typical theorizing that focuses solely on human language production, showing us instead how our own sign-making is actually on a continuum with animal and plant communication.
Storm also considers fundamental issues of the relationship between knowledge and value, promoting a turn toward humble, emancipatory knowledge that recognizes the existence of multiple modes of the real. Metamodernism is a revolutionary manifesto for research in the human sciences that offers a new way through postmodern skepticism to envision a more inclusive future of theory in which new forms of both progress and knowledge can be realized."
