Critical theory and social power

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Abstract

This chapter focuses on the tradition of critical social theory in the 20th century and how work is thematised in this tradition. Specifically, it explores how work is addressed within the broader concern of critical social theory, namely the analysis of social power and the forms of domination that are prevalent in modern society. Critical social theory is a loose denomination that encompasses various disciplinary approaches, from philosophical analysis that includes forms of social criticism to research in the social sciences that renounces axiological neutrality. Numerous influential thinkers of the 20th century fall under this umbrella term. Within such a broad field, two approaches are particularly eminent, and the chapter will restrict itself to them for reasons of scope: one inspired by Karl Marx’s critique of political economy, and relatedly, by the philosopher who inspired him most, namely Hegel; and the other inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche’s “genealogical” reconstructions of the main categories of thought and values of modern society, and by his most famous disciple in 20th century Germany, Martin Heidegger. Post-Hegelian and post-Nietzschean strands of critical social theory themselves include many famous influential authors. However, for many of them work is not a major theme. One important exception lies in the writings of the “first generation” of the Frankfurt School, notably Theodor Adorno, Max Horkheimer and Herbert Marcuse. The first section studies their analyses of the place of work in the pathologies and injustices of modernity. The second section turns to the writings of Michel Foucault, as the post-Nietzschean critical theorist who has written the most about work. Many of his critical analyses were also inspired by Marx and thereby provide an interesting contrast to the Frankfurt School philosophers. The third section is dedicated to the writings of Axel Honneth, the leading figure in “third generation” Frankfurt School critical theory. Honneth is the contemporary critical social theorist who has written the most about work. His approach is particularly interesting as its theoretical assumptions depart significantly from those of his predecessors, notably those studied in the first two sections.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOxford Handbook of Philosophy and Work
PublisherOxford University Press
Publication statusIn preparation - 2025

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