The year 2011 marked the beginning of large, popular protests in a number of african and middle eastern nations, collectively referred to as the arab spring. the protests were spurred by economic, political, and social issues. many of the protests were at least partially incited and organized through social media, including twitter. in what way might the arab spring challenge some of the conclusions of postmodernism?

postmodernism is a broad term that encompasses most social sciences. therefore, it is very difficult to define. however, some of its common elements are the lack of trust in "grand theories" that try to explain too many issues or provide too much structure to social phenomena. it also places a lot of emphasis on power dynamics, and in particular on the domination that people with power can exert on the powerless. it is also a reaction against enlightenment and the ideals of modernity, such as the dominance of reason over every other human quality, or the inevitability and goodness of progress.

the arab spring could provide an example of progress that is directed towards more happiness and freedom, which is somewhat opposed to most ideas of progress in postmodernity. it is also an example of a grassroots movement, which is something not often seen in most postmodern theories of power.

answer; taking up arms to defend the nation;