ABSTRACT
We have seen how Gramsci wanted to re-establish the position of the political actor, the acting subject, in the historical process of social development. He did so from the perspective of one who was constantly involved in political action. From quite a different practical standpoint, this same theme unites the very varied work of the critical theorists. Critical theory is, however, the product of a contemplative, scholarly and academic practice. Its central concern is the theory of political action and the relationship of ‘action theory’ to the critique of society.
