Join Stephen G. Adubato, the host of the Cracks in Postmodernity, in a series of discussions on the ways mass media and popular culture shape our sense of selfhood and of reality. Follow Stephen on X and Cracks in Postmodernity.
“The media,” wrote Jean Baudrillard in 1981, “represent a world that is more real than the reality that we can experience.” The pervasive presence of technology, mass media, and popular culture has woven its way into the fabric of our daily realities. So much so, claims Baudrillard, that “people lose the ability to distinguish between reality and fantasy… They seek happiness and fulfillment through the simulacra of reality.” One may be inclined to take Baudrillard’s cues and lament the extent to which these phenomena have come to skew our sense of reality and self. But perhaps a closer–and more critical–look may unveil some light shining through the cracks of our postmodern culture.
Already have a membership? Sign in to get your series ticket!
In addition to series tickets, you will get access to our community Discord (with a channel for this series to chat between events)—as well as free salon tickets each month, discounts, free members-only events, and more.
Date Episode August 19, 5:30 PM EST The Cult of Celebrity
Why do certain celebrities have such a hold over the public’s attention? What is it about singers like Taylor Swift and Beyonce that incite a quasi-religious devotion in their fans? Tara Isabella Burton and David Odyssey will discuss what’s behind today’s fandoms and celebrity obsessions.August 21, 3:30 PM EST Behind Body Positivity
The Body Positivity movement has aimed to counter the harm caused by eating disorders and negative self-image. But why do eating orders exist in the first place? Abigail Favale and Katherine Dee will discuss why eating disorders are so widespread, and who or what determines what constitutes real beauty.August 23, 3:00 PM EST Faith in a Globalized World
The expansion of globalization provides religious believers with both new opportunities to share their beliefs as well as obstacles to maintaining their local communities. John Milbank, Shadi Hamid, and William T. Cavanaugh will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of being believers in a globalized world.August 24, 3:00 PM EST Reel-y Holy
TikTok reels and other social media content about New Age spirituality have jump started a postmodern religious revival. But what effect is it having on the souls of its adherents? Katherine Dee and Esmé Partridge will discuss what’s behind this new, very online proliferation of religious practices. October TBD, 2024 Selling Ourselves
It’s not secret that advertisers aim to appeal to consumers’ aspiration to take on a certain kind of identity. But how has the dawn of social media, which has radically altered the trajectory of advertising, come to shape the effect ads have on our sense of self? Speakers TBA.
Already have a membership? Sign in to get your series ticket!