Michel Foucault & the Mechanisms of Control

Thanks to everyone who came out for Lewis. I hope that everyone was challenged by the text and the discussion. Lewis' Tao is certainly different from the Tao of Lao Tzu, but as an umbrella term, Lewis argued for the objectivity of morality, values, and qualities. Without it, he reasoned, humanity has no governing principles to prevent us from declining into a conditioned society, ruled by technology and power.

His rail against The Green Book decried a lack of objective meaning in speech. Charles Taylor's concept of the "interspace" is relevant here: that median space whereby the poet is saying something objectively true, not merely subjective sentiment, but that cannot be confined to the world of the empirical. The second essay developed his concept of the Tao as the objective foundation. His third essay discussed man's conquest of nature and the price we pay for it: the abolition of man.

What does Michel Foucault have to say about power and control? Let us turn to the esteemed French philosopher in his Discipline & Punish (on sale for $10 on Amazon currently). Foucault was heavily influenced by Nietzsche, which will be apparent as we move through the work. The text is about 300 pages so start reading early. Additionally, if you want extra reading, I will be reading through Foucault's response to "What is Enlightenment" where he interacts with Mendelssohn and Kant, in an attempt to define modern philosophy. This is not required, but is additional optional reading.

Let's continue to discuss ethics, ontology, and politics as we grapple with this important and erudite text. We will see you in February.
-Brent

We will continue our meetup at Panera. Please save the tables if you get there early.

Format:
6:30-7:45 pm - Discussion of the text
7:45-7:50 pm - Brief intermission for restroom and stretching

7:50-8:30 pm - Open dialogue on themes or concepts from the text
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About:

You can find us inside at Panera Bread. Bring the current discussion text, questions, and an open mind. The environment is casual; however, be prepared for thoughtful and challenging discussion.
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Rules:

1. Respect one another
2. Engage each other honestly
3. Don’t interrupt
4. Seek to understand
5. Allow others to speak

We hope to see you there!