Simulacra and Simulation

By Jean Baudrillard
Translated by Sheila Faria Glaser

Subjects: Cultural Studies, Philosophy, Literary Studies, Literary Criticism and Theory, Art, Architecture
Paperback : 9780472065219, 320 pages, 5.25 x 9, December 1994
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3998/mpub.9904
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The first full-length translation in English of an essential work of postmodernist thought

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Contents
The Precession of Simulacra     I
History: A Retro Scenario     43
Holocaust     49
The China Syndrome     53
Apocalypse Now     59
The Beaubourg Effect: Implosion and Deterrence     61
Hypermarket and Hypercommodity     75
The Implosion of Meaning in the Media     79
Absolute Advertising, Ground-Zero Advertising     87
Clone Story     95
Holograms     105
Crash     111
Simulacra and Science Fiction     121
The Animals: Territory and Metamorphoses     129
The Remainder    143
The Spiraling Cadaver     149
Value's Last Tango     155
On Nihilism     159

Description

This foundational work in postmodern philosophy and cultural theory explores how contemporary society has replaced reality and meaning with symbols and signs, leading to a condition Baudrillard calls “hyperreality.” In his provocative treatise, Baudrillard examines the implications of a world where simulations (copies without originals) precede and shape what we consider real, blurring the boundary between reality and representation. Through analysis of mass media, consumer culture, and technological influence, he argues that modern life is dominated by "simulacra," images and concepts that no longer refer to any authentic reality but instead reference each other, creating an endless cycle of signification detached from truth. With references ranging from Disneyland to the news media, this book offers a challenging critique of how people in the late twentieth century and beyond perceive, construct, and interact with the world, underlining the instability of meaning in a media-saturated culture.

Sheila Glaser is an editor at Artforum magazine.

"Simulacra and Simulation is arguably Baudrillard's most important book. In it he moves from a theory of consumer society governed by a 'code' to a general theory of culture that problematizes 'reality.' His idea of the hyperreal informs most discussions."

- Mark Poster, University of California, Irvine

"Baudrillard's studies in simulacra and simulation are among his most important work, particularly as they pertain to his concept of postmodernity and analyses of postmodern culture. The English translation of these essays is therefore very welcome."

- Douglas Kellner, University of Texas, Austin

". . . a very accessible introduction to [Baudrillard's] thought."

- The Year's Work in Critical and Cultural Theory

Read: Simulacra and Simulation reviewed in Entropy Mag  Link | 10/28/2014
 

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