Discursive formation definition with reference
A discursive formation refers to a set of ideas, practices, and beliefs that shape how knowledge is produced and circulated within a particular social, cultural, or historical context. This concept is derived from the work of French philosopher Michel Foucault, who used it to analyze the ways in which power and knowledge are intertwined in various discourses.
In Foucault's view, discursive formations are not simply collections of individual statements or ideas, but rather organized systems of thought that establish norms, rules, and boundaries for what can be said and known about a particular topic. These formations are dynamic and constantly evolving, as new ideas and practices emerge and old ones are challenged and replaced.
For example, the discursive formation around mental illness in the 19th century emphasized moral and personal failings as the cause of psychiatric disorders, leading to the widespread stigmatization and mistreatment of individuals with mental health issues. In contrast, the discursive formation around mental illness today tends to focus more on biological and neurological factors, leading to a greater emphasis on medical and therapeutic interventions.
Overall, discursive formations play a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the world and influencing how we think and act in relation to different issues and topics. By analyzing these formations, scholars can better understand the power dynamics at play in knowledge production and challenge dominant narratives that may perpetuate inequality and injustice.