Lyotard, The Postmodern, and Nihilism with Ashley Woodward
Feb 2, 2022
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Ashley Woodward, a Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Dundee and a founding member of the Melbourne School of Continental Philosophy, dives deep into Jean-François Lyotard's views on postmodernism and nihilism. He articulates how art intertwines with these philosophies, highlighting their tension with capitalism. Woodward also discusses humanity's relevance in a universe heading towards heat death, the impacts of AI on creativity, and provides insights into navigating Lyotard's complex works. A fascinating exploration of culture, art, and existential thought awaits!
Lyotard's critique of metanarratives reveals essential insights about contemporary culture and art that challenge prevailing societal narratives.
His exploration of the 'inhuman condition' emphasizes the potential for creativity amidst capitalism's dehumanizing tendencies and calls for artistic resistance.
Lyotard's evolving perspective on capitalism highlights its complexities, particularly in relation to climate change and the possibility of alternative systems emerging.
Deep dives
Reassessing Lyotard's Influence
Jean-François Lyotard's work is often overshadowed by figures like Deleuze and Derrida, despite his significant contributions to postmodern thought. Many people recognize him primarily for 'The Postmodern Condition', but often misinterpret his ideas, particularly the concept of incredulity toward metanarratives. Lyotard's diverse writings extend beyond postmodernism, engaging with various styles, from formal logic to avant-garde literature. Understanding his work deeply can reveal insights about contemporary culture and art that merit further exploration.
The Concept of Inhumanness
Lyotard's exploration of the 'inhuman condition' presents a dual perspective: a critique of dehumanization within capitalist systems and a recognition of the potential for creativity beyond these constraints. He suggests that what we consider valuable emerges from aspects of human experience often repressed in contemporary society. This idea prompts inquiry into how art and thought can resist homogenization and capitalize on our innate humanity. Ultimately, Lyotard's philosophy challenges us to reflect on the limitations imposed by current societal expectations.
Art as Resistance
In discussing art, Lyotard emphasizes its potential to engender creativity and serve as a site of resistance against commodification. He remains optimistic about art's ability to produce new meanings and experiences, despite its entanglement with capitalist market dynamics. This view presents art as both a critical response to and a reflection of societal conditions, all while maintaining its intrinsic value. Consequently, he insists that artistic expression retains the power to disrupt conventional narratives, thereby fostering a sense of wonder that persists despite the pressures of commodification.
Capitalism and the Future
Lyotard's outlook on capitalism evolved as he recognized its complexities and the challenges posed by environmental and economic crises. Initially, he perceived capitalism as an unassailable global system; however, he later acknowledged that unforeseen events could shift this dynamic. The impact of climate change and recent economic downturns raise questions about the sustainability of capitalism as we know it. Thus, while he identified capitalism's limitations, he also highlighted an inherent adaptability, suggesting that new possibilities for alternative systems could emerge.
Navigating Lyotard's Work
Engaging with Lyotard can be intricate due to the variety of themes he explores across his writings. He addresses topics from nihilism and information to art, making different texts suited for different interests. A recommended starting point for newcomers is 'The Lyotard Reader and Guide', which offers both introductory essays and selections from his primary works. This collection provides a comprehensive overview of his philosophy, including how it intersected with contemporary artistic practices and technological developments.
Ashley Woodward is Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Dundee and is a founding member of the Melbourne School of Continental Philosophy. In this episode we discuss his book Lyotard and the Inhuman Condition, alongside discussions on the postmodern, art, the heat death of the universe and more.
