Abstract

This chapter considers the role played by ideology critique in the work of second, third, and fourth generation Critical Theorists. Ideology critique is related to the functions of disclosure and reflexivity. Critical Theorists maintain that paths to political emancipation emerge from the unmasking and challenging of often unnoticed forms of ideological domination that naturalize exploitative social relations. They also maintain that normative political thought must form part of a general interdisciplinary mode of enquiry in order to promote a reflexive self-awareness of unexamined theoretical presuppositions. Focusing on the issues of embodiment and power, this article offers a critical assessment of the extent to which Critical Theorists are successful in realizing this two-fold function of ideology critique.