Foundation of Discourse Analysis

Michel Foucault's groundwork for discourse analysis is established, emphasizing that discourse encompasses all forms of communication, not only in spoken or written texts but also in social practices and interactions. Discourse analysis involves recognizing the specialized language and behaviors defined within various fields, such as medicine or literature, which create a unique linguistic environment. Foucault aims to provide the necessary tools to examine how these discourses function, challenging the notion that they merely conceal hidden meanings. His focus is on understanding how communication is shaped by broader social contexts, indicating that discourse plays a crucial role in forming identities and knowledge.