26 of 28 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Comprehensive, yet highly accessible fare, 9 Mar 2003
This review is from: Teach Yourself Postmodernism (TY Philosophy) (Paperback)
I bought this from the official synopsis, thinking it might be a tad dumbed down, O Level type text. I was searching for that elusive tome that would cover all the salient points (to support a degree module) but would not be as dense as The Bible....in Hebrew - as most of the "official" texts are. Yes, we're talking about you here, Messrs Lyotard, Baudrilland et al!
I was very pleasantly surprised, and polished it off in around three days. This is a very accessible book that approaches all the dimensions of this slippery concept in logical, bite sized chunks. Whats more, my dictionary only had to come out once ("vicissitude"). Mr Ward could certainly teach some of his more verbose rivals a lesson in succinctness and clarity.
There is a useful glossary and chronology at the back - and even some websites, although I didn't rate many of these.
It covers the theory more as a condition than a style, and it encompasses the diverse worlds of art, architechture, politics, and feminism, as well as some rather unexpected areas - geography, for instance. As such, this could be accused of being somewhat "broad brush". For example, it doesn't go into great depth about Postmodern art practicioners.
But, as a general introduction at a bargain price, this is excellent.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
good start, 23 Dec 2004
This review is from: Teach Yourself Postmodernism (TY Philosophy) (Paperback)
Trying to understand postmodernism was very difficult since the plethora of books available were extremely difficult to read. However this publication speaks in simple plain english and gives a good summary of the subject matter. The author makes it easier for the reader because he actually explains the thinking behind some of the philiosophers involved such as Jean Baudrillard. The book is organised into particular subject areas so you can delve into what interests you most and still maintain an understanding. I read some of the other 'introduction' books but found them either confusing or they just didn't have enough detail. In some cases the information was just sporadic.I would definately recommend this to beginners
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
5.0 out of 5 stars
Clear read, 8 July 2011
This review is from: Teach Yourself Postmodernism (TY Philosophy) (Paperback)
Easy to read, no pretentious approach, simple and efficient layout. It will give you a clear idea on what does postmodernism mean and it will get your mind rolling along.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No