Is this the right book for me? An indispensable guide to this sometimes challenging domain. Using contemporary examples to further your understanding, it takes a broad look at theorists in a range of disciplines. Whether you're encountering postmodernism for the first time, or you need a quick reference to support your studies, this guide offers a comprehensive introduction to the key ideas in this thought-provoking philosophy. Understand Postmodernism includes: Chapter 1: Postmodernisms Postmodernism is everywhere Pre-history Modernity and Enlightenment Modernity and modernization In or after modernity? Nothing new? A distinction Postmodernism's elasticity Chapter 2: Issues in 'high' and 'low' culture (I): architecture and literature The demolition of modernist architecture Literature: mind the gap The cultural mix Chapter 3: Issues in 'high' and 'low' culture (II): visual art A preliminary note Make it new! Playing among the ruins: a brief history of postmodernism in the art world Modernism and the autonomy of art Andy Warhol The end of the world as they know it? Chapter 4: The loss of the real On television Welcome to Planet Baudrillard Baudrillard's influences Chapter 5: The deconstruction of meaning Structuralism Poststructuralism The influence of deconstruction Problems of meaning and value Chapter 6: Postmodern identities (I): transformations of the self The changing nature of the self The stylization of life Identity in the city Cyberpeople The next sexual revolution? You will never know the real me: Madonna Masks of femininity Identity as construction Chapter 7: Postmodern identities (II): theories of subjectivity Michel Foucault: the invention of man Let's talk about sex The deconstructed self: Jacques Lacan The dispersed subject Is the postmodern condition schizophrenic? The fiction of expression Chapter 8: Postmodern politics Lyotard: when worlds collide The transformation of Marxism Postmodernism, truth and history Postmodern space Theorizing the city Local versus global culture Postcoloniality Does postmodernism mean not believing in anything? Post-postmodernism? Learn effortlessly with a new easy-to-read page design and interactive features: Not got much time? One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started. Author insights Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience. Test yourself Tests in the book and online to keep track of your p