Rethinking Law, Society and Governance

This collection of essays examines Foucault's concept of governmentality, exploring the intersection of law and society. It addresses modern governance, resistance, and various sociopolitical issues through diverse perspectives.

"Rethinking Law, Society and Governance" is a collection of essays that explores Michel Foucault's concept of governmentality, particularly at the intersection of law and regulation with social dynamics. The essays delve into the significance of 'the social' as a distinct realm of governance, raising questions about its role in contemporary liberal systems. The authors examine whether this sphere is still relevant, experiencing decline, or evolving into new forms of governance such as neo-liberalism, neo-conservatism, or neo-socialism.

Contributors to the volume, including David Brown, Jo Goodie, and Russell Hogg among others, engage with these critical questions by analyzing the nuanced functions of law and regulation in managing social issues. They address various themes, including the resistance to liberal governance and the specific targets of such governance, such as unemployment, crime, and the broader implications for Australian geography, environment, and cultural outputs.

The essays not only provide a comprehensive examination of the relationship between law and society but also tackle philosophical and methodological considerations that arise within this discourse. By highlighting the complexities involved in the governance of the social, the authors contribute to a deeper understanding of contemporary issues in law and governance, encouraging readers to rethink established notions and explore the evolving landscape of societal regulation.