Solomon Among the Postmoderns

Postmodernism is difficult to define, whether as a word or a movement. In his new book, Leithart suggests it is simply a generalization we have to live with, that it is the defining rubric through which people now view the world. This is true for postmodernists and anti-postmodernists alike, postmodernism having assumed the role of "spirit of the age." Leithart explores this phenomenon using the book of Ecclesiastes as a guide. He demonstrates how Solomon anticipated many key postmodern concerns, and attempts to draw a balance between those who promote and those who demonize postmodernism.

"Classic Leithart: learned, witty, and readable, Solomon Among the Postmoderns guides us toward a sympathetic and faithful engagement with our critical, protean, and vaporous times."

Endorsements:

—R. R. Reno, Creighton University

"Here is a vivacious account of postmodern culture from a true Renaissance man. With characteristic verve, Leithart deftly narrates the postmodern critique of modernity—without the typical fixation on epistemology and questions of knowledge. But the story doesn't end on the postmodern bandwagon; rather, Leithart pushes further to show that the postmodern critique of idolatry still fails to yield wisdom. In the wake of Derrida and Foucault, we still find ourselves waiting not for Godot or St. Benedict, but Solomon. Amidst the ruins of modernity, this book is an invitation to feast in the temple."—James K. A. Smith, associate professor of philosophy, Calvin College and author of Who's Afraid of Postmodernism? Taking Derrida, Lyotard and Foucault to Church

"Peter Leithart's Solomon among the Postmoderns is welcome evidence of a maturing evaluation of postmodernism in Christian circles that neither lionizes nor demonizes. Engaging in conversation rather than caricature, the author takes his interlocutors seriously precisely because he is so confident in the power of the biblical narrative to pull down all of our towers of Babel, whatever we call them. For those weary of wholesale denunciations or wholesale endorsements of postmodernism, this patient, well-informed and well-written essay in godly wisdom will illumine and inspire."
—Michael Horton, Westminster Seminary

Review by C. Hollis Crossman
C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he's a husband and father who loves church, good food, and weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur. Read more of his reviews here.