Meaning: Jean-Francois Lyotard, a French philosopher, made this statement in his influential work "The Postmodern Condition: A Report on Knowledge." In this quote, Lyotard highlights the importance of considering the methodological representation when discussing knowledge in a highly developed contemporary society. This statement encapsulates the central theme of his work, which critiques the grand narratives and meta-narratives that have traditionally shaped knowledge and emphasizes the need for a new approach to understanding knowledge in the postmodern era.

The quote reflects Lyotard's skepticism towards the traditional modes of knowledge production and representation, particularly in the context of highly developed contemporary societies. According to Lyotard, the prevailing meta-narratives, such as progress, emancipation, and the advancement of science, have dominated the discourse on knowledge in modern societies. However, with the emergence of postmodernism, Lyotard argues that these grand narratives have lost their legitimacy and explanatory power. As a result, he calls for a reevaluation of the methodological representation of knowledge in contemporary society.

Lyotard's emphasis on the methodological representation of knowledge can be understood in the context of the postmodern critique of totalizing and universalizing frameworks. He contends that the traditional methods of representing knowledge, which rely on overarching narratives and unified theories, are inadequate for capturing the complexities and diversities of contemporary society. Instead, he advocates for a more fragmented and decentralized approach to understanding knowledge, one that acknowledges the plurality of perspectives and the localized nature of knowledge production.

In essence, Lyotard's quote underscores the need to critically assess the methodological frameworks through which knowledge is constructed and represented in contemporary society. By posing the preliminary question of what methodological representation to apply, he challenges scholars and thinkers to reconsider the established norms and paradigms of knowledge production. This call for methodological reflection aligns with the broader postmodern project of deconstructing grand narratives and embracing diversity, difference, and multiplicity in the understanding of knowledge.

Furthermore, the quote invites an exploration of the relationship between knowledge and power in contemporary society. Lyotard's work sheds light on how the methodological representation of knowledge is intimately linked to issues of authority, control, and legitimacy. In highly developed contemporary societies, the mechanisms through which knowledge is produced, disseminated, and legitimized play a crucial role in shaping social structures and power dynamics. Therefore, by questioning the methodological representation of knowledge, Lyotard prompts us to consider the implications for power relations and the distribution of knowledge in society.

In conclusion, Jean-Francois Lyotard's quote captures the essence of his critical engagement with the prevailing paradigms of knowledge in contemporary society. It serves as a rallying call for rethinking the methodological representation of knowledge, challenging the dominance of grand narratives, and embracing a more decentralized and diverse approach to understanding knowledge. By posing the preliminary question of methodology, Lyotard invites us to embark on a journey of methodological reflection and transformation, with the aim of fostering a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of knowledge in the highly developed contemporary society.

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