Chapter 2.5: Michel Foucault, power

Summary

In this lecture, the focus is on Michel Foucault's concepts of power, particularly his distinction between repressive and normalizing power. Foucault suggests that the most influential power in modern society is not the obvious repressive kind, but the subtle, pervasive normalizing power that shapes our desires and beliefs, making us willingly comply with societal norms. He argues that this power is omnipresent, affecting us through various institutions like family, schools, and media. Foucault also links scientific knowledge to power, asserting that it plays a crucial role in normalization, influencing how society perceives and expects us to behave.

Takeaways

• 😲 Foucault introduces a new perspective on power, suggesting it can be found in unexpected places, including academia and scientific knowledge.
• 🔍 He differentiates between 'repressive power' and 'normalizing power', challenging the traditional view of power as only violent or coercive.
• 🤔 Foucault argues that 'normalizing power' is more subtle and pervasive, shaping our desires and behaviors without us realizing it.
• 🏛️ Repressive power is associated with institutions like the police and military, and is seen as a last resort when other forms of power fail.
• 🏫 Normalizing power is omnipresent, operating through institutions like family, schools, universities, and even media.
• 👥 Foucault believes that power is not just held by a few; everyone is subjected to it, influencing both the powerful and the less powerful.
• 🧠 Normalizing power constructs our worldview and self-perception, making us believe our beliefs and desires are our own, not imposed by society.
• 🔬 Scientific knowledge is deeply intertwined with power, as it sets the standards for what is considered normal in society.
• 🏛️ Institutions that generate scientific knowledge are sources of normalizing power, influencing how individuals think and behave.
• 🤷‍♂️ Foucault is skeptical of the idea of a 'true self' separate from societal norms, suggesting we are all products of normalization to some extent.
• 💡 Awareness of the ways in which we are subjected to power can lead to a greater sense of autonomy, even if we cannot completely break free from societal influences.

Q & A

What are the two kinds of power that Michel Foucault discusses in his lecture?

Michel Foucault discusses two kinds of power: repressive power and normalizing power.

How does Foucault define repressive power?

Repressive power is defined by Foucault as the traditional form of power that involves the use of force or threats to make people comply with certain rules or orders, such as a judge sentencing a criminal or a boss threatening an employee.

What is normalizing power according to Foucault?

Normalizing power, as described by Foucault, is a subtle and less visible form of power that shapes individuals' beliefs, desires, and decisions in a way that makes them want to do what society expects of them, without the need for explicit threats or force.

Why does Foucault consider repressive power to be less effective than normalizing power?

Foucault considers repressive power to be less effective because it implies a failure and requires the use of force or threats, whereas normalizing power is more effective as it shapes individuals' behavior in a way that they willingly comply with societal norms and expectations.

How does Foucault view the role of institutions in the exercise of normalizing power?

Foucault sees institutions such as families, schools, universities, hospitals, and even media as sources of normalizing power, as they contribute to shaping individuals' views of the world and themselves.

What is the relationship between power and scientific knowledge according to Foucault?

Foucault posits that scientific knowledge is not separate from power. It plays a crucial role in the social structures that exert normalizing power on individuals, with professionals like doctors, psychiatrists, economists, and historians using science to define what is considered normal or acceptable behavior.

How does Foucault's concept of power challenge the traditional view of power as held by a few?

Foucault's concept of power challenges the traditional view by suggesting that power is not just held by a few powerful individuals but is a pervasive force that subjects everyone to its influence, including those who appear to be in positions of power.

What does Foucault suggest about the possibility of breaking free from the influence of societal norms?

Foucault suggests that it is not possible to radically break free from the influence of societal norms because they are deeply ingrained in our identities. However, becoming aware of the ways in which we are subjected to power can lead to a degree of autonomy.

How does Foucault explain the role of education in the context of normalizing power?

Foucault explains that education, particularly university education, is a significant instrument of normalizing power as it shapes students into individuals who think and act in ways that are considered normal and acceptable by society.

What is the significance of the concept of 'normal' in Foucault's discussion on normalizing power?

The concept of 'normal' is central to Foucault's discussion on normalizing power because it represents the societal standards and expectations that individuals are subtly encouraged to conform to, shaping their behavior and perceptions without the need for overt coercion.

How does Foucault view the autonomy of individuals within a society that is pervasively influenced by normalizing power?

Foucault acknowledges that complete autonomy is difficult to achieve due to the pervasive influence of normalizing power. However, he believes that self-awareness and understanding of the mechanisms of power can provide individuals with a greater degree of autonomy.