Self-evaluation processes of stricto sensu postgraduate programs in Brazil and the ethics of freedom in Michel Foucault

Abstract

The theme of this article deals with the self-evaluation processes recommended by the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES). As a modality that is still being consolidated as a criterion for the four-year evaluation of stricto sensu postgraduate programs in Brazil, we recognize the need to substantiate the relevance of this alternative. The objective of the research is to identify formative aspects that justify the continuation of the recommendation. We take as a theoretical framework the investigations of the French philosopher Michel Foucault to better understand the self-formative role of this self-evaluation proposal. We have adopted, in particular, their productions on the notion of ethics of freedom and, by taking it as an investigative category, we understand that the way in which CAPES proposes that stricto sensu programs construct their self-evaluation projects is highly self-formative, especially because it allows the relationship between the subjects and the games of truth exercised to give rise to powerful processes of subjectivation capable of training those involved for the ethical exercise of freedom.