Critical Theory, Normativity and Positivism

Abstract

The presented study deals with the definition of critical theory in relation to political philosophy and political science. In political philosophy, it defines itself in contrast to normativity, and in political science, it defines itself in contrast to positivism. Critical theory is originally associated with criticism of a given production method. Thus, the original critical theory was defined from the traditional theory. Today, however, one form of critical theory can be defined in contrast to the current state, while another maintains the status quo. In contemporary critical theory, history is no longer interpreted as a constant attempt to rip an individual out of conditions of necessity but as a struggle for recognition. All branches of criticism need to be reassessed and used to analyse new political-economic phenomena such as populism or the implementation of technological innovation within the industry (Industry 4.0).