Modernity In Modern Society

INTRODUCTION The concept of modernity is one of the most influential elements in the study of contemporary society and social life. Modernity originated from Western-European ideals of social life and institutions, carrying notions of progress and dynamic changes in how society operates (Giddens 1990:1). While many features of modernity such as industrialization and new political models enhance social mobility and opportunity for individuals to seek fulfillment, one must consider the negative aspects of this new era (Ibid:7-8). In an increasingly globalized world, the interconnections between individuals grow longer, farther, and increasingly more complex (Ibid:18). As a consequence of rising global relations and increased access to information,

Whereas in pre-modern times one may feel safe placing their trust in G-d, modern systems and institutions are openly reliant on other humans who do not have the same assurance that religion would give (Giddens 1990:32). When one reflects on these socially constructed mechanisms, they get a sense of how they are manipulable in many ways whether it is counterfeit, fraud, or any sort of dishonesty. This knowledge of the man-made nature of society gives rise to logical reasons to doubt its success, as well as a sense of uncertainty from an awareness of the fundamentally lawless nature of life

One can gain a clear understanding of the implications that the separation of time and space has on individuals by comparing perceptions of this concept from a pre-modern and modern perspective. In the pre-modern era, time was inherently bound with place (Ibid). For example, a farmer living in the feudal era may organize their day by waking up at sunrise and working until sundown. Daily events such as working hours and mealtimes would be loosely planned, as there were few reliable methods of keeping time (Ibid). Such designated hours such as the “working day” might be determined by how long it takes to complete all tasks for the day, rather than a rigidly timed ‘nine to five’ job. In this sense, time and space were closely linked as individuals could define their daily lives and live by their own schedule