Origins of critique: subject, rationality and praxis in critical theory

Abstract

In this study, I aim to inquire about the origins of Critical Theory with a view to its conception of critique. The concept of critique is articulated by reference to its opposition to mere criticism, because in that separation the essential aspects of critique are discerned. Critique is in deep relation to its peculiar concepts of subject, rationality and praxis, where critical theory as a heritage is founded. Each concept is correlated and reciprocally influencing. By virtue of these concepts and their representation within the spheres of individuality and collectivity, Hegel, Marx and Frankfurt School are practising their critique against bifurcation in modern societies. While using critique, layers of immanent, defetishising and crisis diagnosing critiques constitute the guideline to realise the bifurcation. Hence, critique is actually the decisive judgement made upon the bifurcated condition of crisis. With the common aspects of Critical Theory in this heritage, its critique against traditional theory will be discussed as an example; yet, the consequence will be the impossibility to derive an immanent utopia. This is because in Critical Theory, rationality always bears an instrumental tendency within itself.