Fashionable Nonsense is a book written by Alan Sokal and Jean Bricmont that delves into the world of postmodernism and its impact on the academic community. The book was first published in 1997 and has since become a classic in the field of philosophy and critical thinking.
Introduction
The book begins by introducing the concept of postmodernism and how it has become a popular movement in the academic community. The authors argue that postmodernism is not a legitimate intellectual movement but rather a collection of nonsensical ideas that have gained popularity due to their fashionability. They argue that postmodernism has had a negative impact on the academic community by promoting obscurantism, relativism, and subjectivism.
Chapter 1: The Return of the Repressed
In the first chapter, the authors discuss the origins of postmodernism and how it has its roots in the rejection of modernism. They argue that postmodernism is a reaction against the Enlightenment and the scientific method, and that it promotes a rejection of objective truth in favor of subjective experience.
Chapter 2: The Emperor’s New Clothes
In the second chapter, the authors examine the claims of postmodernists and find them lacking in substance. They argue that postmodernists rely on obscure language and jargon to obfuscate their ideas and give them an air of sophistication. They also argue that postmodernists often make claims that are contradictory and self-defeating.
Chapter 3: The Postmodern Condition
In the third chapter, the authors discuss the impact of postmodernism on the academic community. They argue that postmodernism has had a negative impact on the academic community by promoting obscurantism, relativism, and subjectivism. They also argue that postmodernism has led to a decline in standards of rigor and clarity in academic writing.
Chapter 4: The Postmodern Menace
In the fourth chapter, the authors discuss the dangers of postmodernism and how it has led to a decline in critical thinking and rational inquiry. They argue that postmodernism has created a culture of irony and cynicism that undermines the pursuit of truth and knowledge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Fashionable Nonsense is a powerful critique of postmodernism and its impact on the academic community. The authors argue that postmodernism is not a legitimate intellectual movement but rather a collection of nonsensical ideas that have gained popularity due to their fashionability. They argue that postmodernism has had a negative impact on the academic community by promoting obscurantism, relativism, and subjectivism. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in critical thinking and the pursuit of truth and knowledge.
Interested in reading the whole book?
Buy the book “Fashionable Nonsense” on Amazon
