Doctoral Degrees (School of Higher Education Studies)

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Browsing Doctoral Degrees (School of Higher Education Studies) by Author "Dick, Liezl"

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    Die integrasie van gerasde subjektiwiteite binne die konteks van 'n voorgraadse dameskoshuis aan 'n hoëronderwysinstelling: 'n Deleuze/Guattariaanse perspektief
    (University of the Free State, 2016-07) Dick, Liezl; Le Roux, A.; Kruger, F. J.; Van Tonder, S. P.
    English: This study focuses on racial integration in an undergraduate women's residence at a higher education institution. The radically unique concepts of Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari, with particular focus on their concept of subjectivity, are used to create a different perspective on racial integration. Their concept of subjectivity is used as an alternative to the rational centred Cartesian subject, where identity and rational thought are prioritised. The argument is made that subjectivity is a side effect of a process of connecting and becoming. By proceeding diagnostically, the process of subjectivity can help us understand how subjectivities become racialized and how racism operates. Deleuze/Guattari contribute towards a positive understanding of difference, arguing that no subjectivity can ever really be fixed and static. Race is consequently not perceived as an essential attribute, but rather as a viscous collection of material and immaterial components that stick to certain phenotypes. Subjectivities are territories that become territorialized or deterritorialized; subsequently, racialized subjectivities can become undone to a greater or lesser extent. In this study the conceptual toolbox of Deleuze/Guattari is unpacked. Concepts such as assemblage, the rhizome, molar and molecular, affect, deterritorialization and becoming are discussed. These concepts enable us to move from linear and arboreal thinking, qualities that Deleuze associates with the traditional image of thought of philosophy. An alternative image of thought in the form of the rhizome is proposed which enables thinking to be conceptualised as non-linear and concerned with flow, flux, and connections. A rhizomatic way of thinking is becoming and the reader’s attention is focused on becoming rather than being. In the second part of this study the concepts of Deleuze/Guattari are plugged into the empirical materials that consist of transcripts of conversations, newspaper articles and journal entries. Concepts such as lines of flight, deterritorialization, assemblage and rhizome are connected with the voices of students who live in Madelief residence. The operationalisation of these concepts creates alternative ways of observation, enabling us to understand racial integration differently. These sections of the study form a rhizome and an assemblage – becoming happens when connections are made. The plugging-in of the concepts and empirical materials demonstrates how racialised subjectivities fluctuate between territorialization and deterritorialization. The territorialization of racialized subjectivities via language (order words) and race-habits are demonstrated. The materiality of race is highlighted by indicating that certain material and immaterial components stick to certain phenotypes. This study contributes to a different understanding of race and racialized subjectivities, as well as an alternative perspective on racial integration.