Michel Foucault and the Power of Discourse
Table of Contents
The term 'discourse' gains significant importance in theoretical and academic circles through the ideas of Michel Foucault. He explains that discourse is shaped and guided by those in power, such as the ruling elite or the state, and through discourse, they exercise their power. Discourse plays a crucial role in constructing the reality we perceive and believe to be real. It also maintains the power dynamics between the state and its people, as well as constructs and influences our consciousness, effectively enslaving it. Discourse and Historical Change Foucault is particularly interested in history to explore how discourse changes over time, a concept he refers to as "discursive change." In societies, certain thoughts or theories may not be accepted at a specific point in time because they challenge the dominant discourse. For instance, the theory that the Sun is the center of our solar system was not accepted during medieval times because it contradicted Christianity,…