The Postmodern World: Discerning the Times and the Spirit of Our Age

by Millard J. Erickson

In both subtle and distinct ways, postmodernism has permeated American life, becoming a part of our schools, our TV shows, our churches, our conversations, and even our own thinking. How often have we said or heard, "Do what you want, but don't push your values on me," or "You live your life, and I'll live mine"? Its sheer pervasiveness demands that we ask: Is there anything wrong with postmodernism, or with the tolerance, pluralism, individualism, and casualness that it promotes? With compelling illustrations from current events and everyday life, as well as his customary sound analysis, Millard Erickson equips discerning evangelical Christians not only to understand and recognize the phenomenon of postmodernism but to deal with its effects in a relevant, biblically minded way. As he unearths its evolution, he forcefully reveals postmodernism's inherent problems and its incoherence with the teachings of God's Word. He also unveils the greatest areas of concern for Christians and gives people the tools they need to respond more wisely, believe more certainly, and discern more soundly in this confusing age.

Genres: Theology, Philosophy, Christian, Sociology

144 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 2002

About the author

Millard J. Erickson (PhD, Northwestern University) has served as a pastor and seminary dean and has taught at several schools, including Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Western Seminary (Portland and San Jose), and Baylor University. He has also held numerous visiting professorships, both in the United States and internationally, and is the author of many books. Erickson lives in Mounds View, Minnesota.

Reviews

[Jim · Rating 2 out of 5]

A Christian theologian describes the pervasiveness and influence of postmodernism in current American culture, compares and contrasts postmodernism and Christianity, and exposes the contradictions of postmodernism. Although I had read some information on postmodernism, mainly from Internet sources, before reading this book, I'm a novice in this area, so I can't really evaluate the quality of the author's critique.

[Luís Branco · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is quite nice book on the issue of postmodernism. I believe that the author laid very good points, especially when speaking on the positive side of postmodernism. However, I think that I was expecting something more.

[Douglas Wilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay.