PHIL3065

Michel Foucault's writings have become important reference points in the humanities, in disciplines such as history, sociology, gender, and post-colonial studies, literature and, of course, philosophy. His idea of theory as a toolbox, along with a striking diversity of pursuits, have undoubtedly encouraged such broad reception. Foucault's writings have also been highly contested across the political spectrum. In recent years, he has been accused of being at the origin of "identity politics" (at the detriment of a class analysis of society) as well as of having undermined the concept of truth and hence, paved the way for science skepticism and fake news. In this class, we will understand Foucault first and foremost as a philosopher and explore Foucault’s persistent engagement with Kant, Nietzsche, Marx and Heidegger as well as juxtapose his critique of enlightenment with that of the Frankfurt School (with which Foucault himself acknowledge an affinity). This, after all, will provide us with the tools to revisit the current debates pertaining to his work.

03318

Periodic Fall & Spring