Question bank: Concept of Modernity

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 the context of political and social philosophy, the term 'modernity' is often associated with a series of economic, political, and cultural transformations that began in Europe from the 15th century onwards and later spread to other continents. According to the sociologist Zygmunt Bauman, 'liquid modernity is the type of social order that is capable of changing shape before the shape itself has been fully consolidated.' (Bauman, Z. Liquid Modernity). Considering Bauman's notion of modernity and the historical context of Europe during the Renaissance and the Reformation, analyze the implications of the 'liquidity' of modernity on the aspects of the formation of the modern state and on the social and cultural dynamics that emerged in the transition from feudalism to capitalism.

With the rise of modernity, from the 17th century onwards, there was a growing concern with the dominance and progress of nations, creating a division between the idea of civilization and barbarism. In this context, which concept below best represents the belief in the cultural, technological, and moral superiority of a nation or group over others during the modernity period?

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

At the beginning of Modernity, the concept of civilization was often used to classify different societies based on criteria involving ethnocentrism, racism, and other forms of discrimination. Analyze the relationship between civilization, barbarism, and modernity, and then discuss how these concepts were historically used to justify the domination of certain peoples over others. In addition, address how the understanding of what is 'development' and 'civilized' has evolved over time and the challenges and criticisms of these notions.