Felger L.
Duray
A Comprehensive Chapter Review of Daniel Dennett’s “Postmodernism and Truth”
Introduction
Daniel Dennett, a prominent philosopher of mind and cognitive science, explores the tension
between postmodern thought and the concept of truth in his essay “Postmodernism and Truth.” In
this work, he critiques the relativistic tendencies of postmodernism, especially its challenge to the
idea of objective truth and its potential to weaken the credibility of scientific inquiry. Dennett’s
primary concern is that postmodern skepticism toward universal truths threatens to erode the very
foundations of knowledge, rational dialogue, and intellectual progress.1
Summary of Main Arguments
The Postmodern Challenge to Truth
Dennett explains that postmodernism questions the Enlightenment idea of truth as something fixed
and universal. Postmodern thinkers see truth as shaped by culture, language, and social context.
Dennett believes this approach weakens both philosophy and science because it replaces
objectivity with relativism.
Relativism and Its Consequences
1
Daniel C. Dennett, “Postmodernism and Truth,” in Philosophy and Truth: Selections from Contemporary
Philosophers, ed. John R. Shook (New York: Prometheus Books, 1995), 120.
According to Dennett, postmodernism often treats truth as relative to personal viewpoints or power
structures. While this can reveal hidden biases in how knowledge is formed, he warns that extreme
relativism can be dangerous. If all perspectives are treated as equally valid, then even claims
without evidence can seem legitimate.
Defending Objective Truth
Dennett accepts that human knowledge is always limited and influenced by context, but he insists
this does not mean objective truth is impossible. 2 For him, science—despite its flaws—is the best
tool we have to move closer to truth because it relies on evidence, testing, and correction of errors.
The Pragmatic Role of Truth
Dennett views truth as a guiding principle rather than a perfect or unchanging standard. The search
for truth helps us refine our ideas and discard mistakes. In this way, truth remains essential for
clear communication, problem-solving, and shared progress.
2
Dennett, “Postmodernism and Truth,” 124.
Critical Evaluation
Dennett’s argument is convincing because it shows the risks of extreme relativism, especially in
areas like education, politics, and science where truth really matters. His defense of science as a
process that can correct its own mistakes is also very relevant in today’s world of misinformation.
At the same time, some may feel that Dennett gives an unfair picture of postmodernism by focusing
only on its most radical versions. Many postmodern thinkers did not reject truth completely but
wanted to show how power and culture shape what we call “truth.” From this angle,
postmodernism can still offer valuable insights into the limits and biases of knowledge, even if
Dennett is right to warn against going too far with relativism.
Conclusion
In “Postmodernism and Truth,” Daniel Dennett defends the value of objectivity and scientific
reasoning against the claims of postmodern relativism. He may sometimes place too much weight
on the risks of postmodern ideas, but his main point is clear: truth is essential for meaningful
discussion and shared progress. The chapter reminds us that questioning truth can be useful, but
giving it up completely would put knowledge and society in danger.
Bibliography
Dennett, Daniel C. “Postmodernism and Truth.” In Philosophy and Truth: Selections from
Contemporary Philosophers, edited by John R. Shook, 115–130. New York: Prometheus Books,
1995.
