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Understanding Foucault
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Understanding Foucault
A Critical Introduction

Second Edition


January 2012 | 208 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
"An outstandingly good introduction to Foucault's work: lucid, measured, well organised, and covering this complex and in many ways heterogeneous body of work with remarkable thoroughness and ease."
- Professor John Frow, University of Melbourne


"This is a clear and understandable book, starting with a very helpful glossary of theoretical terms... an accessible introduction to Foucault's major work exploring power and control, governmentality and ethics which are crucial for students to understand."
- Tracy Ramsey
, Liverpool Hope University

"A very good accompaniment to any student thinking seriously about following the work of Foucault... Easy to follow, very well structured."
- Mark Timoney
, Sligo Institute of Technology

Michel Foucault is now regarded as one of the most important thinkers of the twentieth century. He is known for his sensibility of critique and his commitment to movements for social change. His analysis of the ways our notions of truth, meaning, knowledge and reason are shaped by historical forces continues to influence thinkers around the world.

Understanding Foucault offers a comprehensive introduction to Foucault's work. The authors examine Foucault's thinking in the context of the philosophies he engaged with during his career, and the events he participated in, including the student protests of 1968. A unique feature of the book is its consideration of recently published lectures and minor works, and the authors show how these illuminate and extend our understanding of Foucault's major books.

Understanding Foucault provides an accessible entrée to the world of this extraordinary and challenging philosopher.
 
Questions of Method
 
Power and Knowledge
 
Governmentality
 
Liberalism and Neo-Liberalism
 
Subjectivity and Technologies of the Self
 
Critique and Ethics

Cause has taken a slightly different slant although i might use sections of the book.

Dr Hayes Mabweazara
Media and Performance, University College Falmouth
April 25, 2013

A very good and readable text for both tutors and undergraduates alike. Suitable for 3rd level and post graduated too. It has linked Foucault well into contemporary examples and analysis. Will be used in new academic year.

Mr Michael Mahadeo
Dept of Sociology & Appl'd Soc Studies, Ulster University
March 13, 2013

A clear introductory text that covers the key concepts of Foucault ideas which continuous to influence the thinking of researchers. Highly recommended book.

Ms Eva Mikuska
Childhood and Youth study, Univeristy of Chichester
March 12, 2013

A concise, accessible & clear introductory text.

This text covers Focault's key concepts, theoretical frameworks and his significance in modern philosopy.

Mr David Gaylard
Social Work (Bishop Otter), Chichester University
March 8, 2013

A great introductory text for anyone reading Foucault for the 1st time.

Clearly explains Foucault's influence in modern thinking as well as his key concepts and theoretical frameworks.

Mr David Gaylard
other, Chichester University
March 8, 2013

a great introductory text for anyone reading Foucault for the 1st time.

Clearly explains Foucault's influence in modern thinking as well as his key concepts and theoretical frameworks.

Mr David Gaylard
other, Chichester University
March 8, 2013

Accessible, clear and easy to understand text

A great introductory guide to Foucault's key concepts and theoretical frameworks.

I wish I read this text first!

Mr David Gaylard
Social Work (Bishop Otter), Chichester University
March 8, 2013

At last a book that can help students in trying to understand Foucault and providing a great introduction to this well known philosopher.

Mrs Anita McGowan
Humanities , Croydon College
December 18, 2012

A very good accompaniment to any student thinking seriously about following the work of Foucault. Very clear and concise in the manner it is structured the book offers a very clear understanding of Foucaults rather complex at times thinking. Easy to follow, very well structured, a really good text for any Sociology undergraduate. I will be recommending primarily for this level of reader

Mr Mark Timoney
Humanities , Sligo Institute of Technology
May 28, 2012

An excellent primer and a worthy update

Mr Mark Hardy
Dept of Social Policy and Social Work, York University
May 9, 2012