Postmodernism philosophy course exploring language, power and identity in society
AU$299.00
Next: Tue, 21 Apr 6:00PM (AEST)

Postmodernism: Language, Power & Self


Postmodernism is often maligned and misunderstood. This engaging 8-week course offers a clear and accessible introduction to postmodernism as a philosophy of difference, creative rebellion and pluralistic experiments in living. We explore the dynamic relationship between language, power and knowledge, and examine how identity has shifted in post-industrial information societies.

Through close study of thinkers such as Nietzsche, Heidegger, Foucault, Derrida, Deleuze, Lyotard, Baudrillard, Haraway, Butler, Lacan and Žižek, you will investigate how science, technology and discourse shape personal identity and social reality. Rather than treating postmodernism as nihilistic or relativistic, the course presents it as a critical tool for exposing institutional forces that shape everyday life.

Course Outline

  • Weeks 1–2: Nihilism, technology and being (Nietzsche, Heidegger); power, surveillance and biopolitics (Foucault).
  • Weeks 3–5: Deconstruction and différance (Derrida); desire and multiplicity (Deleuze & Guattari); simulation, hyperreality and the crisis of metanarratives (Baudrillard, Lyotard).
  • Weeks 6–8: Postmodern feminisms (Butler, Haraway); critiques of postmodernism (Chomsky, MacIntyre, Jameson); ideology, the unconscious and the split subject (Lacan, Žižek).

Schedule & Pricing

  • Duration: 8 weeks
  • Time: 6:00pm–8:00pm
  • Delivery: Online via Zoom
  • Course fee: $299

Details

2 hours

You will learn

  • Understand key postmodern thinkers and concepts
  • Analyse how language and power shape identity
  • Critically evaluate strengths and critiques of postmodernism

You will get

  • 8 live interactive Zoom sessions
  • Clear explanations of complex philosophical ideas
  • Curated readings and multimedia learning resources

Appropriate for

Artists, activists, writers, 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
  • Curiosity and willingness to engage

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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