Resistance To The Modernization Of Culture In Serbian Society Cover Image

Otpori modernizaciji kulture srpskog društva
Resistance To The Modernization Of Culture In Serbian Society

Author(s): Nikola Božilović
Subject(s): Social Sciences
Published by: Универзитет у Нишу
Keywords: Culture; Modernization; Europeanization; Traditionalism; Identity; The Myth of Kosovo

Summary/Abstract: The author discusses the crucial question of whether Serbia truly pursues the path of modernization and European integration, or just a simulation of these processes. The author proposes the thesis that there are numerous obstacles on Serbia’s transitional path toward the (post)modern European society. Therefore, he tries to discover the essential reasons for the citizens’ reluctance and resistance, the reasons which are related to the modernization of the Serbian society. Serbia is today at the crossroads of the traditional and modern understanding of life. It contains some elements of (post)modernization,but still with a strong influence of its traditional (conservative) heritage. The processes of re-traditionalization (re-mythologization and pseudo-mythologization) represent a major obstacle to the liberation of the society from the grip of the past and to its orientation towards European values. According to the author, the main creators of retrograde flows can be found in the political establishment of contemporary Serbia. He labelsthem, ironically and derogatorily, the “guardians” of tradition, who use demagogic statements, populist paroles, and media information control (for their personal and party interests) to slow down Serbia on its European path.

  • Issue Year: 2012
  • Issue No: 03
  • Page Range: 1117-1141
  • Page Count: 25
  • Language: Serbian