Critiques of Modernity and Coloniality in Latin American Social Thought

In his lecture, Beltrán Undurraga will discuss three theoretical approaches to coloniality and the question of “modernity” and development in Latin America. The most prominent perspective within academic circles is the epistemic critique of modernity in “decolonial” thought (Quijano, Dussel, Mignolo, et al.). The lecture explores two theoretical alternatives to the decolonial call to abandon modernity. From a progressive sensibility, the lecture explores the notion of an indigenous modernity in the work of Bolivian sociologist and activist Silvia Rivera-Cusicanqui (2015). From a conservative perspective, the idea of a “barroque” modernity will be presented, whose cultural identity is at odds with burgeois-liberal developmental projects, elaborated by Chilean sociologist Pedro Morandé (1984; 2020).

An introduction to the lecture will be delivered by Béla Soltész (Eötvös Loránd University, Department of Global and Development Studies).

The event will be held in English, with no translation. The event is free of charge and open to the public. No previous registration is necessary. 

Link to the Facebook-event.

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