Formation and care of self : foucauldian analysis

Abstract

Foucault’s major work revolves around formation of self with regard to the relationship between three major forces: power, truth and subjectivity. Each of this has a unique relationship with the other, and the three forces in tandem have a major impact in the formation of the individual being. For Foucault, one must be aware of oneself and one’s surroundings, and also must have the freedom to question it. This freedom manifests and perpetuates itself through the ancient practice called care of the self. Foucault often turns to the ancient Greeks in his work and analyses the individual in relation to this power dynamics. Care of the self-constitutes a lifelong work on one’s body, mind and soul in order to better relate to people. This paper explores the aspect of care of self along with the constituents.