Mark Pennington

Mark Pennington, a Professor of Political Economy at King's College London, dives into the intriguing connections between Michel Foucault and Friedrich Hayek. He explores how Foucault’s critiques of centralized power and scientism align with Hayek’s warnings about the limits of knowledge. The discussion challenges conventional views on libertarianism and postmodernism, emphasizing the power dynamics in knowledge creation and the critique of expert rule. Expect a mind-bending conversation that reshapes your understanding of freedom and governance!

Mark Pennington, a Professor of Political Economy at King’s College London, delves into the intersection of Foucault's theories and liberalism. He argues that Foucault’s insights on self-creation and biopolitics align with liberal concerns about social control. They discuss the implications of disciplinary power, technocratic policymaking, and the importance of pluralism. Pennington also highlights how incorporating humanities perspectives can enhance understanding in political economy, urging a more robust engagement with identity and creativity.

Mark Pennington, a Professor of Political Economy at King's College London, challenges classical liberals' narrow understanding of power. He introduces Michel Foucault’s insights, explaining that power is not just repressive but productive, shaping identities and behaviors. Pennington argues for acknowledging our cultural embeddedness while maintaining liberal ideals. He highlights Foucault's legacy on the dangers of surveillance and the importance of humility in liberal thought, suggesting that open markets can foster social mobility and creative identities.