A Critical Analysis of the Power Theories of Foucault, Bourdieu, and Habermas in the Context of Higher Education Research
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The article adopts three theoretical frameworks to explore the intricacies of "power." His discourse ethics contradict Habermas's belief in oppressive power. Free speech and ethical debates disregard power, contrary to Foucault's claim that the two are intrinsically related. Contrary to Foucault's insistence that power and history were inseparably linked, Habermas argued that one might seek truth apart from the other. There are two perspectives on power in Bourdieu's dialectical materialism: the subjective and the objective. Work is controversial, relevant, and dynamic, in his view. Habitus symbolism may shed light on the ways in which players unwittingly adhere to social norms. On one point, Bourdieu differs with Habermas: power is something that happens in society and in people's lives. Bourdieu uses Marx's theory of power to promote equality and comprehend social stratification. Ideologies of dominating power impact academics' problem-solving and report-writing. In contrast to Habermas's power-seeking consciousness, Bourdieu's practice-based, sophisticated perspective goes beyond structures and individuals. The disciplinary power of Foucault exposes patterns of covert speech, in opposition to Habermas's aim for free speech principles. The term "power" covers a wide range of events with various features; therefore, picking the correct theory to examine is vital.
Author: Pitsoe, Victor J.
Language: English
Topic: Foucault, Power, and Ethics
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6893294455