Special Topics in Theory: Critical Theory (383-0-21)

Topic

Foucault

Instructors

Penelope L Deutscher
847/491-5293
Kresge 3245

Meeting Info

555 Clark B01: Tues, Thurs 6:30PM - 7:50PM

Overview of class

Participants will acquire a foundational competency in the concepts and central texts of Michel Foucault, the Participants will acquire a foundational competency in the main concepts and texts of Michel Foucault, the most broadly influential late-twentieth-century French philosopher. We will foreground the aspects of Foucault's approach that have most impacted inquiry and critique in the arts, humanities, and social sciences, giving special attention to the fields of gender and sexualities studies, and Black studies. Thematically, the course will focus on Foucault's writings on sexuality, madness, health, prisons, delinquency, families, power, biopolitics, surveillance, selfhood and individuality, knowledge, and truth. Conceptually, we'll debate and apply core Foucauldian concepts such as: archaeology and genealogy; discipline and biopower, the productivity and plurality of power; the social importance of "abnormality;" the conditions under which freedom is also a form of "subjection"; the conditions of social resistance and transformation; the historical a priori; and epistemic rupture. We'll critically assess the contribution of Foucault's major works (including History of Madness, Discipline and Punish, The Order of Things, History of Sexuality). In addition to weekly excerpts, students will read their own choice of one of these works as the basis of their final paper. Students should expect to post weekly contributions to class debate. most influential late-twentieth-century French philosopher.

Associated Classes

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-420: Thurs 8:00PM - 8:50PM