What distinguishes postmodernism from modernism?

Postmodernism is characterized by a notable skepticism towards grand narratives and ideologies, particularly those that assert objective truths and universal principles. This differs fundamentally from modernism, which typically embraces the scientific method and believes in the possibility of uncovering objective realities through rational thought and empirical inquiry. By rejecting the idea of a singular, absolute truth, postmodernism opens the door to multiple interpretations of reality culture, history, and individual experience. This aspect highlights a crucial philosophical shift from certainty to ambiguity, emphasizing the contextual and subjective nature of knowledge and understanding in human behavior and society.

In contrast, the other options reflect principles more aligned with modernist thought. Confidence in the scientific method, belief in rational behavior, and a focus on behavioral predictions all presume an objective framework through which knowledge is acquired and understood, which postmodernism fundamentally questions.