The ?theory-praxis nexus? in Marcuse's critical theory

Abstract

Writers who deal with the critical theory of the Frankfurt School inevitably present the central problem as the attempt (generally seen as unsuccessful) to relate "theory" and "prax? is." Elaboration on their concept of theory critical as opposed to "traditional" theory is usually straightforward given the fact that the Frankfurt theorists themselves were relatively clear in their definition. The difficulty with such discussions, however, is that they usually fail to deal with the ambiguous concept of praxis. In this context, I wish to deal with the "theory-praxis nexus" by emphasizing that there are at least two levels of meaning for the term "praxis" operating in the writings of the Frankfurt School and its critics: (1) praxis as revolutionary organization and activity; and (2) praxis as an anthropological/ontological con? ception of human potentiality. This is certainly no new or startling insight to those familiar with critical theory. Nevertheless, this crucial distinction is often neglected by those who write of the attempt, or failure, of the Frank? furt School to "unite theory and practice." Of the "first generation" Frankfurt theorists, it was Herbert Marcuse who was most consistent? ly concerned with developing a theory of prax? is in both of the above senses. Thus, I will focus primarily on Marcuse's work in this area below, noting the implications for the political project of critical theory.