Modernity is a term used to describe the cultural and social change that has taken place in the Western world from the late 18th century to the present day. It is often associated with the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and the growth of democratic values, as well as the decline of traditional social structures and religious beliefs. Modernity is widely considered a Western project that originated in Europe during the Renaissance period. This view is based on the idea that the Western world was the first to experience significant changes in politics, economics, society, and culture, which led to the development of the modern era.
However, this view is not without controversy, and some argue that modernity is not exclusively a Western project and that other cultures have also played a role in its development. In the film “In a Better World,” director Susanne Bier explores the themes of modernity, justice, and the consequences of violence. The film, set in Denmark and Kenya, highlights the impact of modernity on both Western and non-Western cultures. By examining the main foundations of modernity – industrialism, military power, capitalism, and surveillance, the film provides insights into the formation of modernity and its consequences.
Capitalism is one of the four main foundations of modernity. It is defined as an economic system based on private ownership of the means of production and the creation of goods and services for profit. In “In A Better World,” the character Anton, a Danish doctor who works in Africa, highlights the consequences of capitalism. Anton is faced with the realities of poverty and inequality that result from the capitalist system. The film also shows how capitalism affects people’s lives in both the West and the developing world.
Industrialism is another foundation of modernity that refers to the development and use of technology and machines in producing goods and services. In “In A Better World,” the character Christian, a Danish boy who moves to Africa with his father, shows the consequences of industrialism. Christianity faces the realities of environmental degradation and pollution resulting from industrialization. The film highlights how industrialism has affected the natural world and people’s lives worldwide in the context of technological development and producing goods where people can access them, unlike in Africa.
Surveillance is also a foundation of modernity that refers to monitoring and controlling individuals and groups through technology and other means; in “In A Better World,” Anton and Christian experience surveillance consequences. Anton is monitored by the government and other authorities while working in Africa, while Christian is monitored by his school and family. The film highlights how surveillance affects the lives of people and the consequences of being monitored and controlled.
Military power is the final foundation of modernity that refers to the use of force to maintain order and control over people and territories. In “In A Better World,” the character Elias, a Danish boy bullied at school, shows the consequences of military power. Elias becomes involved in a violent incident at school resulting from using military power to maintain order. The film highlights how military power affects the lives of people and the consequences of its use. in addition; the police were the military power that protected the citizens and held investigations to any criminal activities; however, in Africa, since they lack the military power to control and protect the citizens, the rise of violent attacks have led to the destabilized community.
The notion that all people, regardless of colour, nationality, or religion, should have the same opportunities and benefits is known as universalism. In the movie, we see how Elias and Christian’s similar backgrounds and aspirations for a better world bring them together as friends and allies in the fight for change. This demonstrates how modernity can advance equality and justice and create new forms of inequality and injustice, such as the exploitation of resources and oppression of groups already on society’s margins.
To sum up, “In a Better World” sheds light on the impact that modernity has had on Western civilizations and cultures that are not Western. The film provides insights into the emergence of modernity as well as the repercussions of modernity by studying the primary foundations of modernity. These primary foundations include industrialism, surveillance, military power, and capitalism. The movie demonstrates that although modernity has brought about several positive impacts, such as more freedom and prosperity, it has also led to several negative repercussions, such as increased violent acts and the disintegration of traditional values. This shows that modernity is not just a Western construct but a worldwide phenomenon that has significantly touched all cultures.
References
Anderson, B., & Communities, I. (1991). Reflections on the Origin and Spread of Nationalism. London, New York, 21993.
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