Pages

Thursday, May 13, 2010

What are the marks of modernity?

Modernity touches the social, economic, religious and political fabric of our lives in many ways.It is a concept of being time conscious in terms of present or todays world and is supposed to inherently encompass a new rationalized progressive thinking.When I read about honour killings, dowry deaths,obnoxious amounts being spent on opulent weddings,casteism etc. I wonder at the contradictions that are apparent in our so called fast developing society and economy(even if its geographically scattered and limited).Economically we seem to have embraced the trappings of modernism in every possible way. Our sartorial and brand preferences, fascination with latest technology from cell phones, flat screens, fanciest cars to latest gadgets to home decor, every visible manifestation is there to reflect upward mobility on the social ladder and how we are in sync with the times.People find it easier to adopt cosmetic changes in outward appearances to reflect modernity in their lifestyle and choices but unfortunately remain resistable to any change in their thinking especially when it comes to social relationships, interactions and traditions. One needs to scratch and look beneath the surface veneer of modernism to really understand the dynamics of conservatism and traditionalism operating in a the mental framework of the society.There has to be a combination of education, exposure to other social systems and courage to question,challenge,change and give up set traditions,customs and closed mindsets of the society.The only true mark of modernity is the nature of thought process of an individual or society-- how liberal, unbigoted, tolerant, flexible and free thinking one is.