Michel Foucault

Abstract

This chapter focuses on how Michel Foucault's innovative approach has shaped much sociological thinking and how his insights can be applied to death, grief, and bereavement. Given the limitations of space, the chapter also focuses on power; discourses and regimes of truth; normalization; and technologies of the self. Foucault saw power in positive terms, in the sense that, while the misuse or abuse of power is a major factor in discrimination and oppression, it also has the potential for bringing about positive outcomes. Discourses may begin life as forms of language, but they then construct power relation and behavioral expectations; they play a role in "disciplining" individuals. Language clearly plays a central role, and Foucault's work has helped to draw attention to the need to focus more carefully on the vitally important role of language in social life. In his earlier work Foucault was critical of traditional notions of selfhood and chose to de-emphasize its significance.