Abstract
Michel Foucault (1926-1984), the French philosopher who provided a multidimensional understanding of power, was chosen as the psychobiographical subject for this research study. Despite his extensive work on power, Foucault was more interested in how subjectivity was constructed. The purpose of this research study was to explore the ways in which Foucault constructed his own subjectivity by using his own theory on subjectivity construction to analyse his biographical information over the lifespan. The aim is to understand when and how Foucault participated in the construction of his subjectivity, so as to develop a practical understanding of Foucault’s theory of subjectivity construction. Psychobiographical methods were used, such as collecting his biographical data and analysing it using a psychological theory, which in this case was Foucault’s theory of subjectivity construction as used in critical psychology. The results showed that Foucault refused the subjectivity thrust upon him through a rejection of religion, use of sexual practices, self-destruction and travel. It also showed that he innovated his own subjectivity through writing, use of the unknown, mystical experiences, and parrhesia.
M.A. (Clinical Psychology)