Anti-Modernism in America and its Societal Consequences

Anti-Modernism is a phenomenon characterized by a negative personal or societal response to modern development and “progress.” It occurs in responses to change in religion, industrial and technological development, science, politics, art, etc., and frequently results in cultural, religious or political changes with consequent divisions and disputes. Striking examples appear in the Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Church, and other religious denominations, contemporary politics, art, medicine, and personal dispositions of large segments of society. The reasons for and outcome of these and other examples can be eye-opening. We will discuss particular instances of anti-modernism from the 19th century through contemporary time and consider the psychological and emotional human factors involved.

T.J. Jackson Lears, No Place of Grace (Antimodernism and the Transformation of American Culture 1880-1920), ISBN 978-0226469700. Additional online references and notes will be provided.

Ed Lovely holds a BA in biology and chemistry, MS in Chemistry, graduate degree in business from Columbia Business School. Following early retirement from management in the chemical industry, he obtained a PhD in Philosophy of Religion from Drew University.