The Problem: Legitimation Summary and Analysis

Lyotard identifies legitimation as the primary problem addressed by the postmodern condition. In the postmodern age, there is the advent of computers. The question is raised asking what will be the effect of computers on society in civil institutions in general.

Science finds itself in conflict with other types of knowledge. Lyotard talks about the narrative. Because of the changing narratives, Lyotard notes that there is a notable degree of loss of productivity at institutions and universities. This new paradigm of science and its narratives has contaminated these institutions. This demoralization has had an impact on legitimation according to Lyotard.

The supposed legitimation of science is questionable when compared with the narratives of history and stories, although science may claim to have the same legitimation. Science has become a legislator with prescriptions stating how things should be...