Contemporary Critical Theory and Methodology [Hardcover]

Contemporary critical theorys methodology is currently taking shape under the impact both of transformative internal develops within the discipline, and of external pressures and incentives arising from a series of international debates.

In this book, Piet Strydom presents a groundbreaking treatment of critical theorys methodology, using as a base the reconstruction of the left-Hegelian tradition, the relation between critical theory and pragmatism, and the associated metatheoretical implications. He assesses extant positions, presents a detailed yet comprehensive restatement and development of critical theorys methodology, compares it with a wide range of current concepts of social criticism and critique, and analyzes leading critical theorists exemplary applications of it. Besides immanent transcendence and the sign-mediated epistemology common to the left-Hegelian tradition, special attention is given to the abductive imagination, reconstruction, normative and causal explanation, explanatory mechanisms and the communicative framework which enables critical theory to link up with its addressees and the public.

Contemporary Critical Theory and Methodologyis recommended reading for senior undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as professionals working within disciplines such as sociology, philosophy, political science, critical theory and cultural studies.

Part I: Metatheoretical foundations  1. Classical Foundations  2. Appropriation of the Classical Foundations  3. Contemporary Critical Theory and Pragmatism  4. Immanent Transcendence as Key Concept  Part II: Methodology  5. Contemporary Critical Theorists on Methodology  6. The Methodological Framework of Critical Theory  7. Varieties of Critique: Critical Theory Compared  8. Methodology in Action