Sage Publications The Politics of Postmodernity: An Introduction to Contemporary Politics and Culture

This book addresses the key question of what happens to politics in postmodern times. Politics in postmodernity is carefully contextualized by relating its specific sphere - the polity - to those of the economic, social, technological and cultural that together make up the structures of postmodernity. In this way the traditional boundaries between the political and non-political are challenged and a more general framework of understanding the role of politics within everyday life is introduced. Next the macro processes of postmodernity are considered as the book confronts globalization and the notion of postmodernity as disorganized capitalism. Then the authors analyze the role of the mass media in postmodernity as a bridge to the micro level and notions of self, self identity and lifestyle. The analysis of politics in postmodernity looks at the changing ways in which politics is used and functions in everyday life by exploring the values underpining the new politics and new social movements. And lastly, the new role of the state is addressed before a final consideration the progressive potential of politics in postmodern times. Closing with a postscript on the future of the discipline of political science, The Politics of Postmodernity offers a profound yet highly accessible account of how politics is undergoing a shift from the modern to the postmodern. It will be essential reading for all students and academics in political science, political theory, social theory and cultural studies.