Michel Foucault
- Clare O'Farrell - Queensland University of Technology, Australia
Sociological Theory
"Dr. Clare O'Farrell has written a marvelous introduction to this Foucault for that ever growing number of readers who are working in what has come to be designated as cultural studies. This volume captures the penetrating interdisciplinary concerns that have made Foucault a guide to so many beyond the frontiers of philosophy and history, beyond the borders of the academic community itself. O'Farrell is an excellent guide to Foucault's exploration of culture, highlighting, as she does, the characteristic insights of his learning: the instability of cultural forms of order, the subversive potential of historical analyses, the variety of true discourses within history, and his commitment to social justice. O'Farrell reveals Foucault as he is: the engaged moralist who survived the twentieth century's systems of total explanation. This is an excellent introduction for the general reader to a passionate mind that continues to spread its influence'"- James Bernauer, Boston College
Michel Foucault's work is one of the most influential sources of ideas in the humanities and social sciences today. Clare O'Farrell offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to Foucault's enormous, diverse and challenging output. Her book provides a range of practical tools and a reference work for readers who wish to understand and apply his ideas at both introductory and advanced levels. This volume includes:
- a discussion of Foucault's situation in the contemporary context exploring his role as an iconic thinker, with clear explanations as to why his work is so difficult to come to grips with, and also importantly, why it is of interest to so many people.
- the location of Foucault's work within its own historical, social and political setting.
- brief summaries in chronological order of all of Foucault's major works, including the more recently published volumes of lectures.
- the organization of Foucault's work around five distinct but interrelated series of assumptions which underpin his world view: namely order, history, truth, power and ethics. Ideas for which he is well-known, such as archaeology, genealogy, discourse, discipline, governmentality, the subject and others are defined and discussed within the framework of these five assumptions.
- a chronology of Foucault's life, work and times.
- a very extensive list of key concepts in Foucault's work with detailed references pointing to where the relevant material can be found in his writings.
- a wide-ranging list of resources and a bibliography of Foucault's work for easy consultation.
"O'Farrell...offers the best introduction to Foucault's philosophy.... Superb glossary of major terms; excellent bibliography and chronology. Summing Up: Essential. Upper-level undergraduates through faculty/ researchers."
This book offers a good insight into the works of this influential philosopher
This book is a great supplement volume for theory-led research projects targeting students at the final year of their undergraduate course or higher. A great addition to the recommended reading list for Dissertation and Cultural Theory reports.
A clear, concise and accessible overview of Foucault's ideas. Excellent entry level reading. Clare has made his work available to all levels of interest. Excellent comprehensive bibliography and careful analysis makes this book a key resource.
Good back ground for post grad students who are just starting to think about philosophical stand points.
This book is great for those who are trying to adopt/apply Foucault's idea on their research. The writer explains the complex and sometimes unfinished thoughts of Foucault with clarity.
not inline with the scope of the module
A good book to start off with, especially if you come from a marketing background. Easy to understand the core concepts of a great philosopher - an accessible and intelligent read
