How Postmodernism Serves (My) Faith
Questioning Truth in Language, Philosophy and Art
- Philosophy
- Publisher: IVP Academic (InterVarsity Press)
- Published: 2006
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Publisher's Description
Thinking that postmodernism is a threat, many Christians take a duck-and-cover approach to dealing with it. But that will not make postmodernism go away. Can Christians learn from postmodern thinkers and their critique of modernism? Yes, says author Crystal L. Downing. Postmodernism should not be judged by some of the problematic practices carried out in its name. In a lively engagement with literature, philosophy and art, Downing introduces readers to what postmodernism is and where it came from, aiming to show how Christians can best understand, critique and even benefit from its insights. She draws on her own experiences as a graduate student and her careful research into this worldview's modernist and artistic origins, the challengesof foundationalism and poststructuralism, and the complexity of relativism. She ends with a challenge to Christians: that they not be postmodern in their attitudes towards postmodernism, but instead to "be in the world and not of it" and to extend grace where it is most needed. Downing believes that the challenges, questions and insights of postmodernism can contribute to a deeper and clearer grasp of our faith, as well as providing unique paradigms for sharing the truth of Christ.
Endorsements (4)
“Shortly after a few of us started using the word postmodern, the term in the hands of some became a club--a blunt instrument used to intimidate, insult or exclude (one way or another). Thankfully, thoughtful and articulate scholars like Crystal Downing are now stepping forward, providing nuanced reflection so more charitable dialogue can prevail. Her treatment of relativism alone is worth the price of the book. Highly recommended.”
“Crystal Downing provides us with a wonderfully personal glimpse into the ways in which postmodernism has served to deepen her faith. Drawing in the reader through everyday vignettes, Downing shows that postmodernism isn't necessarily the 'dangerous' entity that so many evangelicals take it to be. Of course, Downing in no way uncritically accepts all things postmodern. Rather she deftly guides the reader through the positive contributions--and pitfalls--of postmodernism. Although Downing writes on postmodernism in terms of her own faith journey, I suspect that many readers will readily identify with that journey, and find that postmodernism likewise serves their faith.”
“I never thought I'd describe a book about po-mo theory as exciting--but this book is. Crystal Downing not only explains where postmodern theory came from and what its aims are but, more important, shows how postmodern theory can help articulate a Christianity free from modernist assumptions. This is the single most helpful introduction to postmodernism I've read.”
“Crystal Downing has provided a wonderful resource for those who are wrestling with the challenges of relating their Christian commitments to postmodernity. In a personal and winsome style, she invites readers to consider the ways in which her own critical and constructive engagement with postmodern thought has served to strengthen and deepen her faith. In so doing she has marked out a clear path for others to follow and produced one of the most enjoyable and helpful books currently available on postmodernism and its implications for Christian faith.”
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