Postponing the postmodern

We are not yet at a moment that could be called postmodernity, and may never be, says leading sociologist Ben Agger in his newest book. Modernity is still our history, our framework. Nevertheless, Agger shows how postmodern theory can enhance understanding of the self, everyday life, and culture in the early 21st century. Changes in culture, commerce, and communications, such as the internet, require "postmodern" modes of knowing. Agger borrows from French postmodern theory and from the Frankfurt School's critical theory in addressing the utility and shortcomings of postmodern theory for understanding identity, culture, race, gender, and power. He explains postmodern theory clearly, borrowing creatively from postmodernism in order to theorize about daily life and social structures heavily reliant on information technologies like the internet and the Web.

Ben Agger is professor of sociology and humanities, University of Texas at Arlington.