This volume explores the currently dominant notion of postmodernity, both in the sense of a historical phase that succeeds modernity, and as a form of knowledge critical of modernist thought. It contains essays from outstanding thinkers in anthropology, history, gender studies, philosophy and political philosophy and sociology, and investigates the political outcomes in the shift from modernity to postmodernity. A special feature of the volume is its focus on the changing social relationships and identities of class, nation, gender and kinship.