Abstract
In this paper I argue that Foucault’s archaeological and genealogical analysis
of the formation of discourses contest the Marxist popular argument that the
political movement can bring about substantial change in society. By political
movement I mean a particular form of political struggle which is based upon the
ideals of universal justice, truth and freedom. These movements aim to shape the
political will of masses to bring change. The intellectuals and leaders of such
movements find masses in so deprived situation that the struggle on their part
appears no viable option. Masses are either conceived in a state of ignorance or
incapable of organizing the movement by themselves. They need shepherds,
prophets, intellectuals or leaders. I find three fundamental presumptions upon
which these political movements ground their struggle. First, the idea of
universal justice and freedom give impetus to these struggles. Second, they
believe in change through mass movement. Third, they believe that the taking
control of state would bring about a genuine change. Foucault contests all these
presumptions on genealogical and archaeological basis.
Zulfiqar Ali. (2011) The Poverty of Political Struggle: Transformation through Critique, Journal of Social Science and Humanities, Volume 50, Issue 2.
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