Critical theory is a school of thought that critiques and seeks to transform society by analyzing power, domination, and inequality. It originated with the Frankfurt School in the 20th century and remains influential in philosophy, sociology, cultural studies, and political science.

🌍 Definition

• Critical Theory: A social and political philosophy that examines how knowledge, culture, and institutions are shaped by power relations.
• Core Aim: Not only to understand society but to change it through praxis (theory + action).
• Foundations: Rooted in Marxist analysis, but expanded by thinkers like Max Horkheimer, Theodor Adorno, Herbert Marcuse, and later Jürgen Habermas.

🔑 Characteristics

• Critique of Domination: Focuses on how systems perpetuate inequality and oppression.
• Interdisciplinary: Draws from philosophy, sociology, psychology, economics, and cultural studies.
• Suspicion of Neutrality: Argues that science and knowledge are not value-free but embedded in social power.
• Transformative Goal: Seeks emancipation, democracy, and justice, rather than mere description.

📚 Historical Context

• Frankfurt School (1920s–1930s): Developed critical theory to analyze fascism, capitalism, and mass culture.
• Post-WWII: Expanded to critique consumer society, media, and authoritarianism.
• Contemporary Critical Theory: Influences feminist theory, postcolonial studies, critical race theory, queer theory, and cultural studies.

🛠 Examples

• Media Studies: Examines how mass media reinforces dominant ideologies.
• Education: Critical pedagogy (Paulo Freire) uses theory to empower marginalized learners.
• Law & Society: Critical legal studies challenge the neutrality of legal systems.
• Cultural Studies: Analyzes how culture reproduces or resists social hierarchies.

✨ Summary

Critical theory is both a method of analysis and a political project. It critiques systems of domination, reveals hidden power structures, and aims to create a more just and democratic society. Its legacy continues in diverse fields, from media analysis to social justice movements.