Michel Foucault "Docile Bodies"

Foucault begins by arguing that the classical age has emphasized the body as the target of power. He uses the solider as the ideal. The body of the solider is disciplined and categorized. The solider must be docile, ready to learn, so as to make him more efficient. It seems like Foucault is arguing that there has to be a balance between the individual's own will, and the greater mission given to him by his superiors. He then references how this is similar in monasteries. One of the most effective ways to control bodies is making them subject to a timetable. Controlling the schedule of one's life has been in use in armies almost since their beginning. In the more modern age, this starts to be seen by everybody's work day being regimented into a concise schedule. This was made easier by machines which divided up and capitalized time. Time became extremely important to the working man and in a way became a more powerful force of control in his life. I think Foucault's argument makes a lot of sense. The common phrase "time is money" basically sums up the argument and by its popular use and practice almost proves it. I think the ideal of the monk and solider are perfect because both give up much of their will and become "docile". Today, many people could be in the same category, especially over zealous business-minded people. I think Foucault might also be saying that people have given up their focus on some "greater good" for a present temporary focus that depends entirely on time and a regimented schedule. Whether he's sees this as a good r bad thing I'm not so sure of.