Michel Foucault's Philosophy?

Question

for school we are studying Michel Foucault, an influential, french thinker of the 1980s. However I dont think I fully understand his philosophy. Can someone please help me understand

also, what does his term "discourse" mean?

Answer 1

If you are confused, don't worry.  Postmodern philosophy can be  impenetrable.  There is a dull army of teachers and authors out there that will only make matters worse.  I'm not an expert, but here are some ideas, hopefully simplified.

Discourse is the verbal or written 'back and forth' between humans we are familiar with everyday.  Scientists engage in  discourse with their peers, while prison inmates engage in some discourse with guards.  Discourse can happen over generations (think of philosophers responding to each other over many years) or seconds (ie ordering a burger).  Now what particular point about discourse Foucault's makes I dont know.