The Epistemology Assumption of Critical Theory for Social Science Research

• Main Authors: Lee, Y.F., Wong, E.S.K., Chong, W.Y.
• Format: Article
• Published: Center for Promoting Ideas (CPI), USA 2011
• Subjects: H Social Sciences (General)
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/13168/; http://www.ijhssnet.com/journal/index/103
• Institution: Universiti Malaya

The main objective of critical theory is the focus upon the inherent connection between politics, values and knowledge in order to uphold that politics and values form the foundations leading towards scientific knowledge. Habermas’ consensus theory of truth is considered here as the most important contribution toward the whole paradigm of critical theory. Critical theory critique towards the Objectivist’s, stands for politically neutral observation language and states that social cultural factors influence our sensory experience and human cognition shapes reality through its imposition of a priori cognitive principles. Only the knowledge derived by discourse through the ideal speech situation is warranted knowledge. A criticism of critical theory is the lack of a clear methodological problem in the concept of oppression and its ideal speech situation. Despite numerous criticisms, critical theory provides the descriptive and normative bases for social inquiry aimed at decreasing domination and increasing freedom.