MODERNITY AND SOCIETY
MODERNITY AND SOCIETY
Modernity is not just a concept that refers to technological advances or the vertical growth of cities. It is the transformation of a mindset, a way of life and even an identity. Today's people decide what to wear, what to think and how to feel within a framework largely shaped by
modernity. Never before has the influence of society on the individual been so intense, but in the modern age this influence comes not only from tradition, but also from global trends, digital platforms and even algorithms. Never before in history has humanity been so connected, yet so alone at the same time.
When modernity is mentioned, most people think of science, technology, secularization, individualization and urbanization. However, these are only the tip of the iceberg. In fact, modernity is the change in the answer to the question "who am I?". While in traditional societies the individual derives his identity from his family, village and the belief system to which he belongs, in modern society the individual now has to construct his own identity. This seemingly free process also brings with it a heavy burden. This is because identity construction, in a world of infinite options, leads to a constant state of decision-making. The modern individual is therefore often indecisive, restless and dissatisfied.
Society has transformed into a multi-layered structure with modernity. The transition from an agricultural society to an industrial society and then to an information society has transformed not only the mode of production but also social relations. Children who used to grow up with neighborhood culture now grow up with digital screens. While it used to be natural to live with the elders of the family, now individual life has become a sign of prestige. Al t h o u g h this transformation has brought some conveniences, it has also caused a shake-up in the human psyche. Values such as solidarity, belonging and unrequited trust have become less and less felt. One of the main characteristics of modern society is presented as the emancipation of the individual. People now make their own decisions; they decide what to wear, where to study, whom to marry, what to believe in. While this may seem like freedom on the surface, modern man is surrounded by invisible pressures when making these choices. The fashion industry, digital platforms, popular culture and social media guide the individual's decisions. In other words, while the individual thinks that he/she has been liberated, he/she has actually entered into another kind of steering mechanism. There are no more prohibitions, but norms are much stronger. Being liked, being accepted and being visible are the new sacraments of modern man. Technological advancesare the most visible face of modernity. Smartphones, artificial intelligence, the internet of things make everything faster, easier and more efficient. However, the same speed has superficialized human relationships. We now establish relationships without getting together and leave without saying goodbye. Friendship starts with a message and can end with an emoji. While the possibilities offered by technology make life easier, the inner depth of human beings remains on the surface. The modern individual no longer cares about feeling, but showing. Presentation instead of depth, image instead of emotion are at the forefront. This turns society into a showcase built on visibility rather than emotion.