Abstract
Abstract The central question of this paper revolves around the problem of representation. Following Jacques Derrida and his critique of representation, this paper will interconnect two, at first sight distinct, topics: Christianity and the world of media. For Derrida, Christianity stands behind our common understanding of representation, whereas the media are the major driving force of any representation today. The central argument of this paper is to unfold this link between Christianity and representation and thus to elaborate on the idea of representation in relation to the end of Christianity announced by Derrida. Firstly, I will review Derrida’s account on the logic of representation. Derrida deems Christianity to be responsible for the logic of representation discernible in today’s media world and offers a devastating critique of the concept. Secondly, I will contextualize Derrida’s approach by pointing out the tension between the modern and postmodern perspectives on representation. Thirdly, I will return to a close reading of Derrida. Fourthly, I will offer a critique of Derrida’s critique and will look further at the possible meanings of ‘the end of Christianity.’
Highlights
The central question of this paper revolves around the problem of representation
For Derrida, Christianity stands behind our common understanding of representation, whereas the media are the major driving force of any representation today
The central argument of this paper is to unfold this link between Christianity and representation and to elaborate on the idea of representation in relation to the end of Christianity announced by Derrida
Summary
No-one would deny that we find ourselves in the situation where everything is connected by means of sophisticated technical systems of communication, transmitting information and producing complex images of reality. As the presence of media is self-evident, it seems as if our faith in seeing images represented before our sight is evident too This problem stands at the center of Derrida’s critique of representation. In consequence, mediated images cease to be perceived as particular perspectives Instead, they represent a specific kind of objective vision, that is, a bird’s-eye point of view on what-is-as-it-is. Jacques Derrida describes the dynamic of representation under the rubric of the transformation of the event into information. The example he uses to explain the logic behind this shift does. How does the event essential for all Abrahamic faiths relate to the world of media and the logic of representation?. Shall we move from modernity as the epoch of representation to the postmodern fragmentation?
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
