An Essay on Baudrillard

Cultural critic? Radical thinker? Critical terrorist? Nihilist? These are just a number ways French sociologist, Jean Baudrillard is described in academic literature. Famous for his well-documented theories on Post-Modernism and the media, Baudrillard presents numerous commentaries on the media’s portrayal of ‘reality’ within society. His theories are extensive and include thoughts and narratives on Marxism and the rise of ‘new’ technology, to note a few. As Richard Lane suggests, “Jean Baudrillard is not only one of the most famous writers on the subject of postmodernism, but he somehow seems to embody postmodernism itself.” (Lane, R. 2000, p.1) However, the focus of this essay is to explore and explain one of the most significant elements of Baudrillard’s theories - ‘Simulation and the Hyperreal.’ In order to completely understand this element of Baudrillard’s theory, it is essential to underline its main arguments. In addition, all theories have strengths and weaknesses and Baudrillard is not exempt from such analysis. Media and communication theory is rich with social commentators and influential minds that make up the fabric of content. Jean Baudrillard is one such commentator who has had a profound impact on the history of media and communication theory. Baudrillard’s impact will be discussed in relation to social theory, namely structuralism and post modern theory. Furthermore, in order to completely understand Baudrillard’s view it is essential to apply the element of simulation and the hyperreal to today’s society. As Baudrillard boldly stated that ‘the gulf war did not take place,’ this discussion will look at the current media portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian situation and the current, on-going intifada. References to relevant scholarly literature will be made to support opinions and justify statements.

Although Baudrillard’s many writings on post modernism gained him a substantial following, Social theorist, Andrew Hussey explains that

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