UGC-NET-English

Michel Foucault, in his analysis of power, particularly in works like Discipline and Punish and The History of Sexuality, conceptualizes power as operating through mechanisms that go beyond traditional forms of repression or direct domination. Instead, his focus shifts to more nuanced forms of control and normalization that shape individuals and societies.

Why (b) and (c) are correct:
(b) By normalization rather than law:

Foucault emphasizes the transition from sovereign power (where the king's law is supreme) to disciplinary power. In modern societies, power operates by creating norms and expectations that individuals internalize, rather than strictly enforcing laws.
For example, institutions like schools, hospitals, and prisons enforce behaviors through "normalization," making individuals conform to societal standards without the explicit use of legal mechanisms.
(c) By control rather than punishment:

Foucault discusses how modern power systems focus on controlling behavior through surveillance and discipline rather than merely punishing deviance. Techniques like observation, classification, and the structuring of spaces (e.g., the panopticon) illustrate how control becomes pervasive and subtle.
Punishment becomes less about physical violence and more about regulating and controlling bodies and minds.
Why the other options are incorrect:
(a) By right rather than technique:

This contrasts with Foucault's assertion. He argues that power increasingly operates through "techniques" or methods that influence behavior (e.g., surveillance, data collection) rather than traditional claims of "right" (like the divine right of kings).
(d) By repression rather than agreement:

Foucault moves away from seeing power as primarily repressive. He emphasizes its productive capacity—how power creates knowledge, norms, and identities rather than merely suppressing or forbidding certain actions.
Summary:
Foucault’s theories highlight how modern power functions more through normalization and control rather than legal authority, punishment, or repression. Thus, (b) and (c) best capture his ideas.