Critical Theory

"Critical Theory" (a philosophy taking root in the 1930's) has spawned an army of activists who believe it is their moral duty to emancipate oppressed people groups. Sounds good! Until you realize...

Critical Theory is a lens through which many Americans (whether they realize it or not) now view society and human freedom. It is based upon ideas developed by a group of “social theorists” who left Germany during the turmoil of the 1930's and came to the United States.

This group became known as the Frankfurt School. They found welcome mats at prestigious American universities, and their activist ideas have influenced higher education ever since. This group included Max Horkheimer, Theodor Adorno, Erich Fromm, and others.

Critical Theory is a philosophy with a bold mission and a compelling (some would say “heroic”) purpose. This purpose provides the fuel that feeds its engine. That fuel is “human emancipation” and “liberation,” as defined by Critical Theory itself.  

The Frankfurt School divided people groups into two categories: the oppressed and the oppressors. Critical Theory can be summed up by the idea that oppressed (dominated) people groups must be liberated from all forms of social oppression, particularly in relation to gender, “race,” and "class." 

Domination of human beings is the enemy, no matter what form this domination takes. Freedom from obligation to conform to any oppressing group's norms is the goal, and social transformation is the intended outcome. 

From its beginnings, Critical Theory has been about changing society, not just understanding or explaining it. Thus, Critical Theory "liberators" are often activists.

Over time, Critical Theory has spawned various specializations, such as Critical Race Theory, Literary Critical Theory, and Critical Pedagogy, to name a few.

I recently heard an interview of Dr. Neil Shenvi by Alisa Childers that connects the dots. It is by far the most helpful piece on this topic I've heard (https://youtu.be/KEPCwbuXbhw).

Dr. Shenvi identifies six premises that underpin Critical Theory in general. I will not repeat them here, but here’s my take-away: 

Critical Theory maintains that people are either part of an “oppressor group” or an “oppressed group.” It is the group identity that dictates whether a person is an oppressor or oppressed. Any "dominate group" claiming that certain moral norms are universally obligatory is oppressive. Such dominating groups and institutions must be silenced in order for humans to be truly free.    

Followers of Christ who believe that biblical norms governing morality (sanctity of life, marriage, homosexuality) are pre-determined by a Higher Being and apply to everyone equally, are an oppressor group that needs to be silenced. 

To be continued.

If the video does not play, click https://youtu.be/KEPCwbuXbhw

Posted by Dr. Christian Overman