ABSTRACT
Critical theory, first proposed by Horkheimer in 1931, is a project in revisionist Marxism committed to the emancipation of individuals from various forms of hegemonic power in post-Enlightenment society. While closely associated with the Frankfurt School, this does not imply that members of the ‘school’ shared a common theoretical commitment. This chapter explores the conflicting views regarding the application of Greek philosophy, hermeneutics, phenomenology, positivism and pragmatism that gave rise to multiple versions of ‘critical theory’ and evaluates the ongoing relevance of this critical project.
