In this major theoretical statement, the author offers a new and
provocative interpretation of institutional transformations associated
with modernity. What is modernity? The author suggests, "As a first
approximation, let us simply say the following: 'modernity' refers to
modes of social life or organization which emerged in Europe from about
the seventeenth century onwards and which subsequently became more or
less worldwide in their influence."
We do not as yet, the author argues, live in a post-modern world. The
distinctive characteristics of our major social institutions in the
closing years of the twentieth century suggest that, rather than
entering into a period of post-modernity, we are moving into a period of
"high modernity" in which the consequences of modernity are becoming
more radicalized and universalized than before. A post-modern social
universe may eventually come into being, but this as yet lies on the
other side of the forms of social and cultural organization that
currently dominate world history.
In developing a fresh characterization of the nature of modernity, the
author concentrates on the themes of security versus danger and of
trust versus risk. Modernity is a double-edged phenomenon. The
development of modern social institutions has created vastly greater
opportunities for human beings to enjoy a secure and rewarding existence
than in any type of pre-modern system. But modernity also has a somber
side that has become very important in the present century, such as the
frequently degrading nature of modern industrial work, the growth of
totalitarianism, the threat of environmental destruction, and the
alarming development of military power and weaponry.
The book builds upon the author's previous theoretical writings and will
be of great interest to those who have followed his work through the
years. However, this book covers issues the author has not previously
analyzed and extends the scope of his work into areas of pressing
practical concern.
