This essay investigates the meaning of the condition of post-modernity today and how it is reflected in tourism.
Post-modernity is a term that is difficult to clarify and often there are different statements amongst sociologists whether at all this term exists or not (Urry, 2002; Atkinson, 2002; Sharpley, 1994; Williams and Sewpaul, 2004). In general the advocates of Post-modernity say that it can be seen in many different conditions as e.g. in art, literature, architecture and the social condition of society. As the term appears in almost all aspects of science and areas of life, just the main characteristics and its connection with tourism will be outlined in this work. The term post-modernity suggests that there must have been a break of an earlier epoch and therefore a new era must have begun afterwards. The sociologists do not agree with each other when the condition of post-modernity really began. Lyotard (1984) believes in contrast to many others that this change of society and culture is in progress at least since the 1950ies, whereas Harvey (1989) says he found evidence for a shift of cultural change in newspapers and journals in the 1970ies.
However, to understand what kind of changes have taken place in the last decades the author will first outline the main characteristics of modernity.
The development of modernity started in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries when society made an enormous progress in agriculture, science and industry. The term modernity as a social condition was not implemented back then. However, due to this progress and therefore a rise in knowledge, society believed in science and was looking forward to the future. These so called Enlightenment thinkers foresaw the victory of scientific development and knowledge. Society started to abandon everything that was linked to traditions and the past. The society of mass production and mass consumption had emerged.
During the time of modernity society also separated themselves from others by class, gender, race, occupation and wealth, a society of differentiation emerged (Sharpley, 1994). There have been high distinctions between high culture, people who where wealthy and therefore had access to cultural events and knowledge, and the low culture, which have been ordinary, working people.
To get a short insight of what modernism was like it may now be easier to understand what is meant with the condition of post modernity.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- What is meant by the 'condition of post-modernity'?
- To what extent is this condition reflected in tourism?
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay aims to investigate the meaning of post-modernity and its reflection in tourism. It will explore the characteristics of post-modernity and how they contrast with the preceding era of modernity.
- The transition from modernity to post-modernity
- Key features of post-modernity
- The blurring of cultural boundaries in post-modern society
- The impact of post-modernity on tourism
- The role of hyperreality and spectacle in post-modern tourism
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- The essay begins by defining post-modernity and discussing its emergence as a distinct social condition. It explores the perspectives of various sociologists who have theorized about this transition.
- The second section delves into the characteristics of modernity, contrasting it with the changes brought about by post-modernity. It highlights the rise of science, mass production, and societal differentiation during the era of modernity.
- The third section focuses on the key features of post-modernity. It explores the rejection of modernist values and the re-emergence of tradition and history. The essay also examines the blurring of high and low culture, the rise of self-identity, and the impact of hyperreality on society.
- The fourth section examines the reflection of post-modernity in tourism. It discusses the changing nature of the tourist experience, the role of media in shaping perceptions of the world, and the emergence of new classes of tourists.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Post-modernity, modernity, tourism, hyperreality, cultural boundaries, differentiation, de-differentiation, spectacle, consumer culture, new bourgeoisie, new petite bourgeoisie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by the 'condition of post-modernity'?
Post-modernity refers to a social and cultural shift characterized by the rejection of grand narratives, the blurring of high and low culture, and an emphasis on self-identity and hyperreality.
How does post-modernity contrast with modernity?
Modernity was defined by belief in science, progress, and mass production, whereas post-modernity focuses on de-differentiation, consumer culture, and the re-emergence of tradition.
How is post-modernity reflected in tourism?
In tourism, post-modernity is seen in the rise of niche markets, the pursuit of "authentic" experiences that are often staged (hyperreality), and the influence of media on travel choices.
What is the role of hyperreality in modern travel?
Hyperreality refers to the creation of simulated experiences (like theme parks or staged villages) that tourists often prefer over actual reality because they meet their media-shaped expectations.
When did the post-modern era begin?
Sociologists disagree; Lyotard suggests it began in the 1950s, while Harvey points to cultural shifts in newspapers and journals during the 1970s.
- Quote paper
- Natascha Winkler (Author), 2007, What is meant by the condition of post-modernity and to what extent is this condition reflected in tourism?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/68299
