Oriental Martial Techniques as Technologies of the Self: A Reply to Michel Foucault

Responding to Michel Foucault's deliberations on the existence of a Self or a subjectivization process in the martial arts, a theoretical discussion is presented of the integration of body, spirit, & technique in the martial arts, with an emphasis on karate-do. The self-technology is anchored in bodily combat practices, while the artistic component of the martial arts embodies subjectivization. Yet another aspect of karate suggests a way of life, an aesthetic. Data obtained via a personality scale from lower-level & advanced karate students (N not provided) & interviews with the parents of 64 children & teenagers at another 2 karate schools confirm an integrated experience of self with philosophy. The martial arts techniques are instrumental in improving & constructing the self, resulting in increased confidence, mastery, strength & flexibility of character, & better interpersonal relations. 29 References. Adapted from the source document.