Online postmodernism philosophy class exploring language, power and identity
AU$299.00
Next: Tue, 21 Apr 6:00PM (AEST)
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Postmodernism: Language, Power & Knowledge


Postmodernism is often misunderstood and misrepresented. This course offers a clear and engaging introduction to postmodernism as a philosophy of difference, creative rebellion, and pluralistic experimentation in the art of living. We explore how language, power and knowledge shape human experience and examine the fragmentation of the self in post-industrial information societies.

Through close engagement with thinkers such as Nietzsche, Heidegger, Foucault, Derrida, Deleuze, Baudrillard, Lyotard, Butler, Haraway, Lacan and Žižek, you will investigate how discourse, technology, institutions and ideology construct personal identity and social reality. Rather than treating postmodernism as nihilism or relativism, this course presents it as a critical project that exposes hidden systems of domination while opening possibilities for emancipation.

Course Outline (8 Weeks)

  • Weeks 1–2: Nihilism, technology, being, and Foucault’s knowledge-power, surveillance and biopolitics.
  • Weeks 3–5: Derrida’s deconstruction, Deleuze & Guattari’s multiplicities, and Baudrillard & Lyotard on simulation and metanarratives.
  • Weeks 6–8: Postmodern feminism, critiques of postmodernism, and Lacan & Žižek on ideology and the split subject.

Schedule & Pricing

  • 8-week course, 6:00pm–8:00pm (weekly sessions)
  • Delivered online via Zoom
  • Course fee: $299

Details

2 hours

You will learn

  • Understand and define key postmodern concepts and thinkers
  • Compare major theories of postmodernity and their critiques
  • Critically analyse cultural discourses, power structures and ideology

You will get

  • Expert-led 8-week online course
  • Clear explanations of complex philosophical ideas
  • Access to curated readings and multimedia resources

Appropriate for

Artists, activists, writers, filmmakers, cultural critics and anyone curious about postmodernism. Beginner-friendly with no prior philosophy background required.


Preparation

What to bring

  • Notebook and pen
  • Device with stable internet connection
  • Willingness to engage in discussion

What to wear


Your Teacher

Sydney Community College

Sydney Community College

38 reviews

Sydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors

The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.

We do this by:

  • Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
  • Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
  • Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
  • Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
  • Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.

Terms

Cancellations & Refunds

If the organiser cancels the class:

You are entitled to a full refund.

If you can't attend the class:

You’re welcome to send someone in your place.

OR

  • A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.

Terms & Conditions

At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.  

At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.

That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably.  Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:

Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

 Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued.  If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.

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