Critical Theory

Definition of Critical Theory

The Canada social science dictionary [1] provides the following meaning of Critical Theory: A sociology developed by the Frankfurt school that is influenced by divergent intellectual ideas, including Marxism and psychoanalysis. It starts from two principles: opposition to the status quo and the idea that history can be potentially progressive. Together these principles imply a position from which to make judgments of human activity (rather than just describing) and provide the tools for criticism. Sometimes associated with highlighting the ‘dark side’ of modernity, critical theory attacks social ideas and practices which stand in the way of social justice and human emancipation (the rational organization of society as an association of free people). Critical theory is opposed to ‘bourgeois liberalism’.

Critical Theory: Resources

Notes and References

• Drislane, R., & Parkinson, G. (2016). (Concept of) Critical Theory. Online dictionary of the social sciences. Open University of Canada