Defining the Critical Theory
The Critical Theory of the Frankfurt School is a critique of capitalism, its appropriation of the surplus value of the collective, and its commoditification of every aspect of our modern society. It provides a better understanding to present social conditions, how these conditions evolved, how they are transformed, how they interact with each other, what laws govern their transformation, and how they maintain their validity. This complex task is achieved through a multi-discipline approach that combines perspectives drawn from many different fields of study. These fields include economical, historical, philosophical, political, psychological, and sociological studies. However, this does not mean that the Critical Theory is limited to only these fields. Contrary to the belief of many scholars, the Critical Theory is self-reflective in its nature and value driven. The ultimate goal of the Critical Theory is to transform our present society into a just, rational, humane, and reconciled society. The Critical Theory has several basic tasks, but is not limited to only these tasks, which are all equally important in our present historical situation. Some of the tasks of the Critical Theory are:
To promote a diversified education for all individuals in order to steer them away from over-specialization. This will create individuals with strong mental faculties who will be able to think critically about the forces that affect their daily lives.
To help steer humanity away from Alternative Future #1 and Alternative Future #2.
To create a social balance between the personal autonomy of the individual and universal solidarity of the collective.
To promote revolution against all forms of fascism and nationalism.
To promote revolution against all forms of discrimination including those based on sex, sexual orientation, race, and religious belief.
To preserve the good moral values that promote universal solidarity and will help bring about a more just, humane, rational, and reconciled society.
Each Critical Theorist uses their particular skills, talents, and knowledge to contribute to the massive endeavor of the Critical Theory. But this does not mean that they did not contribute to different areas of research, for example, the "Dialectic of Enlightenment" is a collaboration between Adorno and Horkheimer. The findings of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation of Critical Theorist are generally noted as the "Critical Theory of Horkheimer" or "Marcuse's Critical Theory". The collective findings on a particular subject are usually denoted as, for example, "Critical Theory of Religion" or "Critical Theory of Art". Respectfully, it should be stressed that this clear and concise definition of the Critical Theory does not mean it is the only definition. Most Critical Theorists prefer a negative definition of the Critical Theory, meaning, it is easier to determine what the Critical Theory is not, instead of what it is.
If you would like to quote my definition of the Critical Theory, it would be extremely courteous of you to notify me, by way of E-Mail, where and how you are using it; even though I know that I cannot force you to do so. I would like to thank Rudolf J. Siebert and Michael Ott for critiquing my work as I put this definition together. I will add to this definition as I gain a better understanding of the Critical Theory. Here is two ways you can cite this electronic source. The first example is APA and the second is MLA. Remember, the second date listed is the date you accessed this web page.
Jensen, Walter (May 1997). Defining the Critical Theory.
Application of the Critical Theory. Retrieved May 23, 2005,
from http://www127.pair.com/critical/d-ct.htm
Jensen, Walter Defining the Critical Theory. Application of
the Critical Theory. Retrieved 23 May 2005
‹http://www127.pair.com/critical/d-ct.htm›