Mapping the Present: Heidegger, Foucault and the Project of a Spatial History

by Stuart Elden

This title assesses the relationship between Foucault and Heidegger, particularly on the issue of space and history. It suggests that space and history need to be rethought, and combined as a spatial history, rather than as a history of space. In other words, space should become not merely an object of analysis, but a tool of analysis. The first half of the book concentrates on Heidegger: from the early occlusion of space, through the politically charged readings of Nietzsche and Holderlin, to the later work on art, technology and the polis. Foucault's work is then rethought through Heidegger, and the project of a spatial history established through re-readings of his works on madness and discipline.

Genres: Space, Philosophy

232 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2001

Reviews

[Ian]

Written by my brother, some parts a little over my head but I got more out of it than I dared hope! He's a professor of Philosophy but has a really clear writing style so you can read it without being a student of the field - but I suspect it may help!

[Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding writing, excellent use of citations and a great introduction to the notions of space in Heidegger and Foucault, as well as shedding light on how the latter interpreted the former's works.