How to turn your knowledge into power ✊
Transform your impact by understanding these simple patterns in society's institutions and the mainstream media
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About ten fifteen years ago (I genuinely wrote ten forgetting my actual age for a moment), I graduated from Brighton University with a 2:1 in Media and Communication studies. It is here where I developed a huge fascination with philosophers like Michel Foucault. His ideas about power and knowledge have a lot to teach us about using our knowledge for good, and how it can help us challenge and change oppressive systems.
I’ve been thinking a lot recently about Foucault’s famous line, “knowledge is power,” which is more than just a catchy phrase. It reveals how power isn’t just about governments or big institutions. Instead, power is everywhere, embedded in our everyday lives through the knowledge we consume and the norms we follow.
Those who control knowledge have a big influence on how society runs. Understanding this can help us use our knowledge to fight against oppression and make the world a better place. I know, I know! I make it sound so simple!
One of Foucault’s big ideas is “discursive formations.” These are systems of knowledge that shape what a society believes to be true or false. Discursive formations are like the rules and patterns that control what we talk about, how we talk about it, and what we believe to be true. They shape our understanding of the world around us.
I asked ChatGPT for a real life example of how discursive formations play out in UK media:
Media Portrayal of Immigration: In the UK media, discursive formations surrounding immigration often influence public perceptions and discussions on the subject. Specific narratives and language choices are commonly used to frame conversations about immigration, shaping how people perceive and respond to the issue.
Example: Tabloid newspapers may frequently employ terms like "illegal immigrants" or "migrant crisis" to describe immigration, portraying it as a problem or threat that needs addressing. These discursive formations not only impact public views on immigrants but also influence policy debates and public opinion.
Impact on Society: Such portrayals can contribute to the stigmatization and marginalization of immigrant communities, reinforcing stereotypes and biases. They also influence political discussions, shaping the policies and approaches taken by policymakers and government bodies.
Application of Theory: By applying Foucault's theory of discursive formations, we can examine how specific language and narratives in UK media construct particular understandings of immigration. This analysis helps to identify power dynamics and challenge dominant discourses by promoting alternative viewpoints and narratives.
This analysis helps to identify power dynamics and challenge dominant discourses by promoting alternative viewpoints and narratives.
Imagine how much more informed we’d all be if we approached news consumption this way.
Maintaining an active stance in media consumption is key. We need to critique, question, and research to form our own opinions confidently. Sharing trusted information adds value to conversations.
But it’s not just about what we consume; societal mechanisms shape our behaviour too. Foucault's "Discipline and Punish" talks about how institutions like schools and prisons subtly control us. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for resistance movements because it helps identify how power operates in everyday life.
By being critical consumers and understanding power dynamics, we empower ourselves to challenge dominant narratives in today's media landscape.
Information + formed opinion + circulation = a ripple effect of action and change
Foucault's ideas have inspired real-world movements like Black Lives Matter. Started by Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi, #BlackLivesMatter gained traction after Trayvon Martin's death. Through social media, activists expose police violence and racism, challenging dominant narratives. This grassroots effort reshapes discourse and influences policies, showing how sharing knowledge can create social change.
The #MeToo movement is another great example. The collective effort of people sharing personal stories of sexual harassment and assault, enabled the widespread nature of these issues to be exposed. This shift in discourse has led to significant cultural and legal changes, holding powerful people accountable and fostering safer environments. A movement only made possible, thanks to survivor and activist Tarana Burke, in 2006 who founded the movement.
We have a crucial role to play
As consumers of information, our role is crucial. Simply absorbing knowledge isn't enough; we must actively engage and share what matters. Speaking out about issues that resonate with us, when it's safe, challenges oppression and aligns with our values.
Sharing our truths inspires others, sparking awareness and action. Not only this but it connects you to others who share the same values as you. It differentiates you from the crowd and it’s a great way to attract your people. Being open about my opinions and values is one of the best lead magnets for business. Most of my clients have either come to me via a referral or directly saying something along the lines of ”I love your vibe” or “The content you share really resonates with me”.
People love honesty, they love confidence and they value those who use their voice to fight for change. We are all capable of using ours to create the change we want to see in the world.
Foucault's insights on knowledge and power offer a framework for challenging oppressive systems, deconstructing dominant narratives, exposing power dynamics, and amplifying marginalised voices drive social change.
We must play an active role in this process, using our knowledge to fight oppression, being bold in the opinions we share and staying true to our values whilst working towards a more equitable world.
You in?
I’d love to know what you think. Do you enjoy learning more about the theory of things and why people behave the way they do? Personally, I find it fascinating but this is for you just as much as it is for me, so let me know!
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Great article. Hugely informative!
I wish the power and implication of language and vocabulary was more discussed and recognised in our workplaces and our communities….
Love this Lara, had heard of the phrase but not the philosopher behind it, please share more of this :)