Seamless articulations? : a critique of posthumanism

Abstract

The dissertation examines posthumanism through a review and critique of certain foundational texts in posthumanism. Certain notions of the relationship between humanity and technology are discussed, as well as how these notions help to underpin a posthumanist outlook. The implications of posthumanism for poststructuralism are reviewed, and consideration will be given to how a liberal humanist view endorses an idea of the "human" that may already be outmoded when faced with a posthumanist present. This will lead to a close review of posthumanist texts, and of texts influenced by posthumanism. Criticisms of posthumanism will also be examined and the relevance of these criticisms will be assessed. An attempt will be made to address some of the areas where posthumanism is vulnerable, especially with regard to the fact that it seems relevant only to countries that are technologically advanced. The dissertation will conclude with a personal response to posthumanism that will be as informed and objective as possible, and which will examine if the task that posthumanism sets itself, that of seamlessly articulating opposing elements, is fulfilled.