Foucault and Social Dialogue: Beyond Fragmentation

by Chris Falzon

Foucault and Social Dialogue; Beyond Fragmentation is a compelling yet extremely clear investigation of these options and offers a new way forward. Christopher Falzon argues that the proper alternative to foundationalism is not fragmentation but dialogue and that such a dialogical picture can be found in the work of Michel Foucault. Such a reading of Foucault allows us to see, for the first time, the ethical and political position implicit in Foucault's work and how his work contributes to the larger debate concerning the death of man.

Paperback

First published April 2, 1998

Reviews

[John Dobbin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book, Australian philosopher Chris Falzon very clearly lays out the Foucaultian rejection of the metaphysical subject, the God-like transcendental subject that is suppose to provide the ultimate grounds for knowledge and action. Falzon argues that such rejection does not automatically lead to fragmentation as Habermas claimed. Rather the true postmodern path is the notion of dialogue, an ongoing encounter with the other. A superb introduction to Foucault's philosophy and postmodernism in general.

[Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent interpretation/consideration of Foucault and the post-modern, in the context of readings of modernist philosophers and critics of possible postmodern implications. Compelling analysis, and ultimately uplifting. Very well written.