Considerations on Michel Foucault's Critical Thinking
the critical function of the means of self-transformation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26512/rfmc.v12i2.55967Keywords:
Michel Foucault. Critical thinking. Tradition of Kantian critical philosophy. Critical function. Means of self-transformation.Abstract
The text addresses Michel Foucault's critical thinking, starting from his consideration as an heir to the tradition of Kant's critical philosophy, which is oriented towards a diagnosis of the present. There are comments on this theme of Foucauldian philosophy; however, they fail to elaborate on certain important aspects related to the way in which Foucault frames a question that guides his research. In understanding the importance of Kant's critical philosophy as an object of analysis, the critical function intended by Foucault is also highlighted in relation to the interests his research assumes. Precisely developing the aspects of this critical function characterizes the intended goal of advancing a little-explored theme: the relationship between critique and transformation. In this sense, the argument favors the critical function of the means of self-transformation, so that Foucault's critical thought does not remain incomplete and can grant him a distinct position within the tradition of philosophy.
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