New Books in Critical Theory Martin Shuster, "Critical Theory: The Basics" (Routledge, 2024)
Aug 1, 2025
In this discussion, Martin Shuster, a Professor of Philosophy at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, dives into the critical importance of critical theory today, particularly the legacies of the Frankfurt School. He unpacks how thinkers like Adorno and Marcuse addressed systemic suffering and its relevance to contemporary issues. Topics include the interplay of culture and psychology, the commodification of art, and the necessity of critical frameworks in understanding today’s societal challenges. A compelling entry point for anyone eager to grasp the complexities of change.
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Urgency of Critical Theory Today
- Critical theory is vital today because many people's views are driven by forces beyond their control, like algorithms.
- This tiny control over our interpretations impacts politics, society, and economics, requiring critical assessment.
Frankfurt School’s Core Concern
- The Frankfurt School theorists were mostly German Jewish intellectuals concerned with structural, needless suffering.
- They sought to understand and dismantle societal structures that cause avoidable oppression and suffering.
Generations of Critical Theory
- The first generation Frankfurt School was radical and willing to propose society-wide changes.
- Later generations, like Habermas', became more formal and less radical, but practical activists like Angela Davis represent another legacy.
