1.2. Critical Theory and Karl Marx
The six dimensions of a critical theory of society can also be found in Karl Marx’s works, which shows the importance of his thought for any critical theory.
1.2.1. Critical Theory has a Normative Dimension
Criticism ‘measures individual existence against essence’ (Marx 1997, 61–62). This means that critical theory is normative and realistic. It argues that it is possible to logically provide reasonably grounded arguments about what a good society is, how the good society relates to conditions that all humans require to survive (the essence of humans and society), and how we can judge existing societies according to which extent they provide humane conditions or not. Marx found it important to not just analyse capitalism academically, but also to politically communicate this analysis. This explains his own practice as a journalist and political actor.
1.2.2. Critical Theory is a Critique of Domination and Exploitation
Critical theory questions all thought and practices that justify or uphold domination and exploitation. Marx formulated the categorical imperative of critical theory: it is the ‘categoric imperative to overthrow all conditions in which man is a degraded, enslaved, neglected, contemptible being’ (Marx 1997, 257–258). Critical theory wants to show that a good life is possible for all and that domination and exploitation alienate humans from achieving such a society. For Marx, the ‘task of philosophy […] is to unmask human self-alienation’ (Marx 1997, 251). In deconstructing alienation, domination and exploitation, critical theory also makes demands for a self-determined, participatory and just democracy. Such a society is not only a grassroots political democracy, but also an economic democracy, in which the producers control the production process and the means and outcomes of production. Critical theory wants to make the world conscious of its own possibilities. The ‘world has long dreamed of something of which it only has to become conscious in order to possess it in actuality’ (Marx 1997, 214).
One can interpret Marxist approaches and critical theory as a form of political communication: they communicate fundamental deformations of society and humanity and potentials for political change and struggles by which humans can overcome these deformations.
Introduction: Critical Theory of Communication
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