Foucault's Aesthetics of Existence and Shusterman's Somaesthetics : Ethics, Politics, and the Art of Living

Bringing together Michel Foucault’s aesthetics of existence and Richard Shusterman’s somaesthetics, this volume provides a critical comparison of two of the most influential philosophical theories of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Introduced by a comprehensive overview of both concepts by editors Stefano Marino and Valentina Antoniol, the ensuing chapters interrogate the affinities and variances between Foucault’s and Shusterman’s philosophies.

Building on the interdisciplinary character of somaesthetics and aesthetics of experience, beyond a narrow focus on art and beauty, international scholars explore these ideas through a wide range of topics ranging from care for the social self to the ethical challenge posed by white ignorance.

Given the central role played by the body in both concepts, this volume also affords particular attention to the philosophy of sexuality. Demonstrating the value of reading these two thinkers together, Foucault's Aesthetics of Existence and Shusterman's Somaesthetics reveals not only how Foucault’s philosophy has played an important role in Shusterman’s work, but also how recent developments in somaesthetics and somapower present a complement – or, for some, an alternative – to Foucault’s notions of biopower and biopolitics.