Two Theories of Modernity

This article distinguishes two opposed theories of modernity : the cultural and the acultural theory. The former admits that modern science and technology as well as modern social organization are based on determined set of values. The latter - which is the dominant one - pictures the process of the demise of traditional society and its replacement by a neutral,"natural" order. Thus, modern individualism, for example, is assumed to be a natural way to behave once the myth and error of the ancient times have been dissipated. The author points out the illusory assumptions of this theory and its negative effects, suggesting notably a more diverse, pluralistic conception of modernity in the different parts of the world.