Understanding Foucault: A Critical Introduction(Understanding Contemporary Culture series)

"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.

Table of Contents:
Questions of Method Power and Knowledge Governmentality Liberalism and Neo-Liberalism Subjectivity and Technologies of the Self Critique and Ethics

About the Author :
Tony Schirato teaches and researches in the areas of cultural theory, media literacy, and sport and the media. He has co-authored books on the work of Michel Foucault and Pierre Bourdieu, and also on communication and cultural literacy, globalisation, Asian cultural politics and visual culture. His most recent book is on sports culture. He is currently co-authoring a book on the work of gender theorist Judith Butler. Dr Geoff Danaher taught in the STEPS bridging program at CQUniversity. He has researched in areas such as cultural studies, education for travellers, comedy and gender and sport. Jen Webb is Professor of Creative Communication at the University of Canberra. With Tony Schirato, she edits the Understanding Contemporary Culture book series.

Review :
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.