Introduction to Foucauldian Discourse Analysis

This course offers an in-depth exploration of Foucauldian Discourse Analysis, enhanced by an AI-driven interactive learning platform. It delves into Michel Foucault’s critical theories, particularly the nexus of power and knowledge as pivotal forces shaping societal norms and identities. Students will uncover the methodologies integral to Foucauldian analysis, learning to identify epistemes, understand governmentality, and analyze how societal structures and power dynamics are constructed and perpetuated through language. The curriculum includes a thorough examination of Foucault’s seminal works, such as “The History of Sexuality” and “Discipline and Punish,” using these texts as case studies to illustrate the practical application of Foucauldian principles in dissecting societal discourses. Additionally, the course addresses critical perspectives on Foucauldian approaches, discussing potential criticisms like issues of relativism, neglect of agency, and methodological challenges. Through engaging with interactive articles and employing the Discourse Analyzer AI assistant, students are encouraged to actively engage with content, select text segments, and pose questions, facilitating a dynamic and personalized exploration of complex theoretical concepts in Foucauldian Discourse Analysis.