This paper shall discuss the relationship between neoliberalism and biopolitics by reference to the German abortion law §218 and §219. To do this it shall first define the terms and then have a look at German abortion laws. Subsequently, I will discuss how both neoliberalism and biopolitics are integral parts of German abortion law, and which end this serves. The paper comes to the conclusion that neoliberalism and biopolitics do not antagonise each other. Biopolitics and Neoliberalism are, as will be seen, two fundamentally different philosophies. One wants regulation, and puts responsibility and power in the hands of the state, the other wants deregulation and puts responsibility and power in the hands of the individual. However, they need not necessarily pull into two different directions.
Table of Contents
1. What is the relationship between biopolitics and neoliberalism?
Objectives & Topics
This paper examines the relationship between neoliberalism and biopolitics within the context of the German abortion law (§218 and §219), arguing that these two seemingly contradictory philosophies can function in a symbiotic, fruitful manner for the state.
- The theoretical definitions of Biopolitics and Neoliberalism.
- The role of the individual as a self-regulating economic actor.
- An analysis of German abortion laws as a site of biopolitical and neoliberal convergence.
- The impact of state-mandated counseling on female autonomy.
- The state's interest in fertility and population management.
Excerpt from the book
What is the relationship between biopolitics and neoliberalism?
This paper shall discuss the relationship between neoliberalism and biopolitics by reference to the German abortion law §218 and §219. To do this it shall first define the terms and then have a look at German abortion laws. Subsequently, I will discuss how both neoliberalism and biopolitics are integral parts of German abortion law, and which end this serves. The paper comes to the conclusion that neoliberalism and biopolitics do not antagonise each other. Biopolitics and Neoliberalism are, as will be seen, two fundamentally different philosophies. One wants regulation, and puts responsibility and power in the hands of the state, the other wants deregulation and puts responsibility and power in the hands of the individual. However, they need not necessarily pull into two different directions. Neoliberalism, Foucault proposes, is “the general framework of biopolitics’ (in Mavelli 3). I, however, argue that Neoliberalism and Biopolitics do not necessarily govern each other but can, despite their contradictory characters, combine to a yield a more fruitful result than just one of the philosophies by itself.
Summary of Chapters
What is the relationship between biopolitics and neoliberalism?: This introductory section establishes the core argument that neoliberalism and biopolitics coexist in a functional symbiosis within German abortion law, balancing state regulation with individual responsibility.
Keywords
Biopolitics, Neoliberalism, Abortion Law, §218, §219, Foucault, Sovereign Power, Autonomy, Population Control, Reproductive Rights, Self-governance, State Interests, Counseling, Market Rationality, Fertility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core subject of this paper?
The paper explores the intersection and interaction between biopolitics and neoliberalism, specifically through the lens of the German legal framework regarding abortion.
What are the primary fields of study involved?
The study engages with political philosophy, legal studies, and feminist theory, specifically utilizing the work of Michel Foucault.
What is the central research question?
The author asks whether biopolitics and neoliberalism are inherently antagonistic or if they can be combined to achieve specific societal and state objectives.
Which methodology is applied?
The paper uses a theoretical analysis of philosophical concepts (Biopower and Neoliberalism) applied to the practical legal text of the German Criminal Code (StGB).
What does the main body analyze?
It analyzes how sections §218, §218a, and §219 represent a compromise between state-driven biopolitical control and the neoliberal emphasis on individual choice.
Which keywords define this work?
The essential terms include Biopolitics, Neoliberalism, Abortion Law, Population Control, and Reproductive Autonomy.
How does the author define the 'neoliberal' view of the pregnant woman?
The author argues that a neoliberal viewpoint frames the woman as an entrepreneur of her own body, treating her fertility as 'capital' that she must manage responsibly.
Why is the mandatory counseling (§219) considered a biopolitical tool?
The author argues that the counseling is not neutral but acts as a state-mandated mechanism to influence reproductive decisions in favor of the unborn, thereby restricting the woman's sovereignty.
What is the conclusion regarding the 'symbiosis' of these two philosophies?
The author concludes that while this combination restricts the individual woman, it creates a 'fruitful result' for the state by ensuring population growth while maintaining the appearance of neoliberal autonomy.
- Quote paper
- Anna Klamann (Author), 2016, Biopolitics and Neoliberalism. The relationship between Biopolitics and Neoliberalism by reference to the German abortion law, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/376465
