One can decide that the principal role of knowledge is as an indispensable element in the functioning of society, and act in accordance with that decision, only if one has already decided that society is a giant machine
Jean-Francois LyotardRead
If we wish to discuss knowledge in the most highly developed contemporary society, we must answer the preliminary question of what methodological representation to apply to that society
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding knowledge requires a clear methodology specific to modern society.
Jean-Francois Lyotard emphasizes that to engage in meaningful discussions about knowledge in today's complex and advanced society, it is crucial to first establish the appropriate methods of representation. This highlights the importance of context and framework in shaping our understanding of knowledge and its implications in contemporary life.
Themes
KnowledgeMethodologySocietyRepresentationPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a philosophy class discussing the nature of knowledge.
More from Jean-Francois Lyotard
All quotes βKnowledge is and will be produced in order to be sold, it is and will be consumed in order to be valorised in a new production: in both cases, the goal is exchange
Jean-Francois LyotardRead
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