What is Critical Theory?

The first principle splits society into two social groups of the “oppressor” and the “oppressed”. This was in large part borrowed and developed Karl Marx. You might often hear critical theory also called “cultural Marxism”.

The second principle of critical theory centers on the existence of hegemony. Hegemony is when the oppressor use their power and influence in the realms of politics, society, and culture to dominate the oppressed group. This is popularly and simply known as systemic oppression.

The third principle presumes that knowledge and truth be centered around an individual’s lived experience and group identities. This empower the oppressed groups with special knowledge typically unavailable to the oppressor groups. This makes the oppressed group better situated to speak to issues of injustice and disparity. Conversely, it should also be noted that according to critical theory, the oppressor groups will use the idea of objectivity to downplay lived experience and keep oppressed groups marginalized.

Lastly, critical theory seeks to “liberate” and “emancipate” oppressed groups from their oppressors. This could happen in several ways, but typically it occurs on a spectrum between two scenarios:

In general, critical theory doesn’t merely seek to explain how society operates but also seeks to achieve liberation.

The strengths of CT?

The weaknesses of CT?