Question bank: Concept of Modernity

In the 19th century, Western thought on modernity and progress led to the creation of concepts such as 'civilization' and 'barbarism', defining them as opposites and relating them to the idea of advancement in societies. In this context, how were non-Western peoples often viewed and labeled by Europeans?

In the context of modern philosophy, the concept of 'modernity' is often associated with the advent of scientific rationality and the breaking with pre-established traditions and authorities. In the work 'Critique of Pure Reason', Immanuel Kant discusses the importance of the autonomy of reason in the process of modernization, stating that 'Man cannot achieve an understanding of himself without culture'. Considering the social, political, and technological changes that characterized modernity and the necessary reflection on the cultural legacy that accompanies it, discuss the role of education in the development of a modern society. How do educational institutions contribute to the formation of individuals capable of dealing with contemporary challenges, maintaining a connection with cultural tradition, and promoting the continuous evolution of rational thought?

During the Renaissance, humanity witnessed an intense cultural and scientific awakening that marked the beginning of Modernity, a period characterized by significant changes in social, economic, and political spheres. The revolution of knowledge and the pursuit of technical-scientific progress were crucial aspects that shaped the new worldview. In 'Liquid Modernity', the sociologist Zygmunt Bauman proposes a reflection on modernity and its consequences, stating that 'liquid modernity undermines all forms of solidification of the social world and human action [...]'. Considering the excerpt and the historical-philosophical context presented, analyze how the concept of modernity influenced not only the way individuals relate to each other, but also how they interact with the natural environment and how this process can be interpreted in light of sustainability principles.

In modern society, the concept of 'progress' is intrinsically linked to technological development and scientific advancement, which are often seen as a path to solving human problems. However, the philosopher Zygmunt Bauman, in his work 'Liquid Modernity', presents a critique of the modernity ideal, arguing that the liquidity of social relations and the ephemerality of institutions in the contemporary era generate uncertainties and insecurities that escape technological solutions. In an interdisciplinary classroom context, where the discussion of the concept of modernity includes not only Philosophy but also elements of Sociology and History, analyze the following excerpt from Bauman: 'Liquid modernity is a type of modernity that dissolves the solids that once shaped human actions. It disconnects from history and projects the future as a task for each individual.' Considering Bauman's perspective, discuss how the social transformations typical of liquid modernity affect the individual's perception of identity and the notion of community, taking into account the historical and social contexts that have shaped the evolution of this era.

Which of the alternatives below corresponds to the historical time that defines postmodernity?