A Review of “Philosophy of Foucault (European Philosophy Series)”

摘要

Reviewed by Anthony A. Defalco Continental, Long Island UniversitynPeople were told centuries ago that to look for permanence is a mistake, and tonunderstand who one is means accepting the notion of change for one’s worldnand for one’s self. Philosophers and educators still hold to the belief that selfrealization—nthat there is more than one way of being a human being—is of majornimportance. Additionally, schools that do not produce self-directed citizens havenfailed both society and the individual. Michel Foucault, through his projects andnthroughout his years of creating and recreating himself, tried to help people answernthe central question of who they are. Unfortunately, Foucault is not accessible fornmany. Aside from his plethora of writings, his projects display a re-creation ofnhis prior thoughts, yet not the permanence one might be looking for. Further, notnonly does Foucault have numerous books and papers to offer, but those works alsonmirror his notions at various dynamic stages. Therefore, for those interested innsharing in the ideas of Foucault and being able to make an informed decision tonaccept or reject his writings, one needs an instrument to assist in gaining an insightninto what Foucault had, and perhaps still has, to offer. Todd May, in his book ThenPhilosophy of Foucault, has attempted to do that. He has done so in a manner thatnis well structured, clearly presented, and intellectually honest.