Foucault Sex And Discourse Analysis

As I was reading Foucault, I realized that the relationship that he defines between sex and discourse is quite complex. Arguably, rather than focusing on sex and discourse, he focuses more so on the idea of the discourse of sexuality as leading to the concept of sex. He also ties in the idea of power-knowledge-pleasure into the relationship between sex and discourse. In the opening chapter of the book Foucault states that the “object, in short, is to define the regime of power-knowledge-pleasure that sustains the discourse on human sexuality” (11). He asserts that the relationship of discourse and sex is a spiral in a sense. There is an exercise of power, when there is discourse on sex and sexuality, this discourse allows for the gaining of knowledge and thus there is a level of pleasure due to heightened awareness. It was interesting for me to see discourse on sexuality presented in this manner. I had never viewed the relationship as almost a power struggle. Another argument that he makes in terms of the relation between sex and discourse, is that it is not “one discourse but rather multiple, formed by various mechanisms, in different institution [and that with that], the transition of sex into discourse was done in order to eliminate forms of sexuality that did not adhere to the strict ideal of reproduction” …show more content…
To me, it seems as if Foucault is arguing that the relationship between sex and discourse is one that ties into the idea of the observed and the observer. The increase in discourse in relation to sex, is directly a result of power that is exercised. This power creates an intense will to knowledge, resulting in heightened pleasure. In my mind, the relationship between sex and discourse, is a never ending cycle. The power exhibited not only attracts, but highlights more about sex and sexuality, in terms of