Postmodernism is analyzed as a reaction against Marxism and the end of history discourse, with Moufawad-Paul critiquing its idealist underpinnings.
Lasch's critique of postmodernism as 'phony radicalism' and his rejection of its writing style are discussed.
The other main ideological force discussed that, with its moral relativism and skepticism of grand narratives, paradoxically entrenches capitalist realism.
Barthes's 'death of the author' essay is situated within the postmodern philosophical movement that challenged traditional notions of meaning and authorship.
The podcast episodes discuss various aspects of postmodernism and its impact on society, particularly in relation to neoliberalism, capitalist realism, and the inability to imagine alternatives to the current socio-economic system.
Postmodernism is seen as contributing to a culture of nostalgia, the loss of utopian thinking, and the entrenchment of capitalist realism, where the existing order of capitalism is perceived as the only viable option. The episodes explore how postmodernism's moral relativism and skepticism of grand narratives have paradoxically reinforced the dominance of neoliberalism and capitalist ideologies.
The episodes also examine the critiques of postmodernism, particularly its perceived deleterious effects on academia, its denial of objective truth, and its elevation of power narratives over reason and universal principles. The discussions highlight the need to rethink the relationship between tradition, rationality, and social responsibility in the face of the challenges posed by postmodernism.