Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Foucault's Iran Trip: Misogyny Masked as Anti-Imperialism

1/14/2026

40 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In 1978, Michel Foucault, the French philosopher, traveled to Iran during the Shah's regime collapse and became captivated by what he called a "political spirituality" revolution.
Iranian feminists warned that the narrative romanticized their erasure.
After the revolution, women protested compulsory veiling and faced violence.
Foucault dismissed these women's criticisms.
This stance allowed misogyny to be excused under anti-imperialist rhetoric.

1 of 1

Story summary

In 1978, Michel Foucault, the French philosopher, traveled to Iran during the Shah's regime collapse and became captivated by what he called a "political spirituality" revolution.
Iranian feminists warned that the narrative romanticized their erasure.
After the revolution, women protested compulsory veiling and faced violence.
Foucault dismissed these women's criticisms.
This stance allowed misogyny to be excused under anti-imperialist rhetoric.