Bernard Harcourt, On critical genealogy. Contemporary Political Theory (2024).
https://doi.org/10.1057/s41296-024-00715-y
Open access
Abstract
Today most critical theorists who deploy history use a genealogical method forged by Nietzsche and Foucault. This genealogical approach now dominates historically inflected critique. But not all genealogical writings today, nor all philosophical debates surrounding genealogy, advance the goals of critical philosophy. It is crucial now that we assess the value of genealogical critiques. The proper metric against which to evaluate such work is whether it contributes to transforming ourselves, others, and society in a valuable way. In this article, I propose that we use the term “critical genealogy” to identify those genealogical practices that positively nourish our activity and, thereby, advance the ambition of critical philosophy.
Foucault News 
This article provides a helpful analysis of the ways Foucault’s genealogy has been applied in recent critical scholarship. I appreciate the emphasis on the relationship between critique and praxis, and ways research into the murky or marginalized past can lead to progressive action.
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