Religion and Culture

Rating:
Summary: A mixed bag
Review: As the English speaking world is lacking the definitive collection of Foucault's numerous occasional writings for journals, newspapers and forwards to books, any addition to the ever-expanding oeuvre of translations is a plus.

Most of the selections here have been published previously in other collections. However, this collection includes some interesting pieces that were previously hard to find. My favorite may be "Who are you, Professor Foucault?" an interview conducted shortly after Les Mots and les choses, in which Foucault dismisses the criticism of anti-humanism by referring to humans as mere functioning species. Classic. Also, the essay, "Is It Useless to Revolt?" is a stunning and conflicting piece of political writing. Beautifully written (and translated). The editor includes a selection of Foucault's final lectures which outlines the intended fourth volume to the History of Sexuality: The Confessions of the Flesh.

In all, these essays provide an interesting contrast between Foucault's aesthetic views and views on spirituality and religion. Indeed, the mystical side of Foucault are highlighted in his essays on Klossowski and modern French fiction when read alongside his writings on the Church and mystical experiences.

Oh, and this collection includes a marvellous brief memoir by James Bernauer. Good stuff...