Critical Theory

An approach in social and political philosophy, associated with the Frankfurt School, that seeks to understand and critique society and culture holistically. It aims to uncover the universal within the particular, examine the relationship between empirical research and theory (meeting, for example, at Columbia in 1941), and is known for its methodological demands, such as reading essays as integrated wholes.

Claims that use this term

• Behemoth was Institute recognition denied because its methodology strayed from Critical Theory
• Neumann diverged from Critical Theory in method, not conclusions
• Every sentence in Critical Theory essays must be read through the whole essay
• Critical Theory met empirical communications research at Columbia in 1941
• Critical Theory seeks the universal within the particular rather than above it
• Marcuse’s American popularity carried Critical Theory into the New Left