Introducing Foucault

Michel Foucault's work was described at his death as the most important event of thought in our century. As a philosopher, historian, and political activist he certainly left behind an enduring and influential body of work, but is this acclaim justified? Introducing Foucault places Foucault's work in its turbulent philosophical and political context, and critically explores his mission to expose the links between knowledge and power in the human sciences, their discourses and institutions. This book explains how Foucault overturned our assumptions about the experience and perception of madness, sexuality and criminality, and the often brutal social practices of confinement, confession and discipline. It highlights his engagement with psychiatry and clinical medicine and shows how his politics found physical expression on the streets of Paris in conflict with the police. The book also contrasts his background, education, lifestyle and relationships with the transgressive aspects of pleasure and desire which he promoted in his writing.