demodernization

Demodernization is a conceptual term that describes a societal or cultural shift away from the characteristics associated with modernism and modernity. While modernism is broadly understood as a philosophical and artistic movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries emphasizing reason, progress, and a break from tradition, demodernization suggests a subsequent or parallel process that questions or rejects these tenets. This can manifest in various ways, including a renewed interest in tradition, a skepticism towards technological advancement, or a re-evaluation of universal truths.

The concept is not a widely established academic term but rather a descriptive label used in discussions about contemporary cultural trends. It can be observed in areas such as a resurgence of traditional crafts, a critique of globalization, or a philosophical turn towards postmodernism's skepticism of grand narratives. Demodernization can also be seen as a reaction against the perceived alienation or dehumanization that some associate with unchecked modernization. It implies a conscious effort to move away from the ideals and outcomes of modernity, seeking alternative values and structures. The exact nature and implications of demodernization are subjects of ongoing interpretation and debate, often overlapping with discussions of postmodernism, tradition, and cultural change.