The differend

Definition

The differend is a concept introduced by Jean-François Lyotard that describes a situation in which two parties are unable to resolve a conflict due to a fundamental disagreement in their language or the criteria for judgment. This term highlights the struggle between competing narratives or discourses, where each side's way of understanding and articulating their position makes it impossible for them to engage in meaningful dialogue. The differend emphasizes the limits of communication and the complexities of interpretation in the context of postmodern thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The differend illustrates how conflicts can arise not just from opposing views, but from incompatible ways of interpreting those views.
2. Lyotard argues that when a differend occurs, one party's voice may be marginalized or rendered voiceless, leading to an imbalance in power dynamics.
3. The concept challenges traditional notions of truth and rational discourse, emphasizing that multiple narratives can coexist without a single resolution.
4. In the context of the differend, language is seen as a barrier rather than a bridge, complicating attempts at reconciliation between differing parties.
5. Lyotard's focus on the differend reflects his broader critique of grand narratives and metanarratives, advocating for the recognition of localized and fragmented experiences.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of the differend highlight the challenges in resolving conflicts between different perspectives?
  • The differend underscores that conflicts are not merely about differing opinions but involve deep-rooted disagreements in language and criteria for judgment. When two parties face a differend, their inability to communicate effectively stems from their distinct interpretations and frameworks. This disconnection means that traditional methods of negotiation may fail, as each side is operating within its own narrative that does not allow for compromise or understanding.
• Discuss the implications of the differend for power dynamics in discourse and communication.
  • The differend reveals significant power imbalances in discourse, where one party may dominate the conversation while another remains unheard. In instances of a differend, marginalized voices struggle to articulate their experiences using a language that resonates within the dominant narrative. This results in a lack of recognition for their perspective, perpetuating inequalities and hindering potential resolutions. The concept thus emphasizes the need to acknowledge diverse narratives to foster more equitable communication.
• Evaluate how the differend challenges traditional theories of truth and understanding within postmodern thought.
  • The differend fundamentally challenges traditional theories by asserting that there is no singular truth that can resolve all conflicts. Instead, it posits that multiple narratives exist concurrently, each valid within its own context but often incompatible with others. This perspective shifts the focus from seeking an objective resolution to recognizing and respecting divergent understandings. As such, Lyotard's concept encourages a reevaluation of how we approach dialogue and conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of listening and validating diverse experiences rather than imposing universal truths.

Related terms

paralogism: A type of argument that is fallacious or invalid, often used in discussions where logical reasoning fails to bridge differing perspectives.

incommensurability: The idea that two different frameworks or languages cannot be compared or measured against each other due to their distinct meanings and contexts.

narrative: A structured account of a series of events or experiences, which can reflect and shape individual and collective identities.