Documents and power: orders of the discourse

Abstract

This article is a reviewed version of a lecture read in 2008 in Argentina. It tries to explore the archival process of appraisal, from the point of view of its underlying interactions with the power systems interests. First, we outline a short definition of the notions of power and system, and tentatively explore how power systems and documents systems could interact. However, the core of the article is to re-visit the French philosopher Michel Foucault’s classic text The Order of Discourse, where the author articulated a reflection on interrelationships between power and discourse. We try to apply the Foucault’s template to current archival practice and theory in Spain, basically by suggesting reasons underlying old practices and understandings. We propose a different, Foucaldian approach to contemporary archival practice and theory. Finally, we propose some conclusions, for further research.