What Is Critical Theory? A Concise Christian Analysis

An In-Depth Look at the History and Philosophy of Critical Theory from a Gospel Perspective

Critical theory was born over a century ago. Created to foster social transformation, this emerging theory would soon influence universities, politics, and pop culture across the globe and spark tense debates between groups across the sociopolitical spectrum. But what exactly lies at the heart of critical theory, and how should Christians engage with this controversial perspective? To answer these questions, we must examine the history, philosophy, and ideas of the thinkers who shaped its development. 

This book offers a balanced and thoughtful analysis of the core principles and implications of critical theory, as well as the published works of its key philosophers and their views concerning biblical themes, including creation and reality; sin and the human dilemma; and redemption, history, and eschatology. Through his concise Christian perspective, Bradley G. Green helps readers articulate what critical theory is—a view of human nature in opposition to the gospel narrative.

• Analytical: Uses a dispassionate tone to examine the history and key components of critical theory 
• Examines Critical Theory’s Major Thinkers: Walter Benjamin, Theodor W. Adorno, and Jürgen Habermas
• Christian Perspective: Examines topics including creation and reality; sin and the human dilemma; and redemption, history, and eschatology
• Thoughtful: Perfect for Christian college students, pastors, and readers interested in other works on critical theory

160 pages

 

“Brad Green’s book provides a readable and penetrating introduction to critical theory, a subtradition of Marxism. It describes the basic founding figures and their views but also—most valuably—critiques them from a Christian perspective. The hopes of Marxists and advocates of critical theory are a twisting and counterfeit of the Christian view of sin and hope in Christ as the remedy. This book does well to equip Christians with a basic understanding not only of these views but also of the mixture of good and bad they offer.”
Vern S. Poythress, Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Biblical Interpretation, and Systematic Theology, Westminster Theological Seminary