Michel Foucault, a prominent political thinker, proposed new frameworks for analyzing social power dynamics. His influential theories challenged conventional notions of power, suggesting it is not merely held by institutions but is relational and pervasive throughout society. Foucault's work on discourse, surveillance, and biopolitics has opened new avenues for understanding how power shapes human behavior and social structures. His ideas remain highly relevant in contemporary discussions surrounding identity, governance, and the mechanics of control.