Meaning: This quote by Jean-François Lyotard encapsulates the complexity of understanding and studying society in the modern world. It reflects the idea that the process of understanding society is not a passive, objective endeavor, but rather an active and subjective choice. The quote emphasizes the crucial role of the approach and methodology in social inquiry, highlighting the interconnectedness between the way in which society is studied and the answers that are produced. To fully grasp the significance of this quote, it is important to delve into the context of Lyotard's work and the broader implications of his philosophical perspective.

Jean-François Lyotard was a prominent French philosopher known for his contributions to postmodern philosophy. His work often focused on the nature of knowledge, communication, and the impact of technology on society. In his influential work "The Postmodern Condition: A Report on Knowledge," Lyotard examined the changing nature of knowledge in the postmodern era. He critiqued the grand narratives and metanarratives that had traditionally shaped our understanding of society and instead emphasized the fragmented and diverse nature of knowledge in contemporary society.

When considering the quote, it is essential to recognize the overarching theme of skepticism towards grand narratives and the belief in the plurality of perspectives. Lyotard's quote suggests that the process of understanding society is not a straightforward, objective task. Instead, it involves making deliberate choices about the approach and methodology employed in social inquiry. This reflects a fundamental shift away from the idea of a unified, definitive truth about society towards an acknowledgment of the multiplicity of truths and the subjective nature of knowledge production.

Furthermore, the quote implies that the way in which society is studied directly influences the answers that are generated. This notion aligns with Lyotard's emphasis on the importance of language games, or the diverse forms of discourse and communication that shape our understanding of the world. Different approaches to social inquiry can yield contrasting interpretations and conclusions, highlighting the inherent subjectivity and contingency of knowledge.

In the contemporary context, Lyotard's ideas remain highly relevant, especially in the field of social sciences and humanities. The quote underscores the significance of reflexivity in research, urging scholars to be mindful of the ways in which their chosen methodologies and theoretical frameworks shape the knowledge they produce. It also speaks to the ongoing debates surrounding objectivity and bias in academic research, emphasizing the need for critical awareness and self-reflection in the process of understanding society.

Moreover, the quote raises important questions about the role of power and ideology in shaping social inquiry. By acknowledging that choosing an approach to studying society involves selecting how society can answer, Lyotard alludes to the inherent influence of social, political, and cultural factors on the production of knowledge. This aligns with broader discussions about the social construction of reality and the ways in which dominant discourses and power structures shape our understanding of society.

In conclusion, Jean-François Lyotard's quote encapsulates the intricate relationship between the approach to social inquiry and the resulting answers about society. It underscores the active and subjective nature of knowledge production, emphasizing the importance of reflexivity, plurality, and the influence of language games in shaping our understanding of the world. By considering this quote in the context of Lyotard's broader philosophical framework, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of studying society in the contemporary era.