What Is Critical Theory?
This paper explores and attempts to answer some of the fundamental questions and challenges brought against organizational communication scholars who follow the critical tradition. Specifically addressed in the paper are the following issues: (1) the vocabulary of critical theory; (2) assumptions and goals of critical theory; (3) critical theory and the politics of academe; and (4) critical theory and application. The paper concludes by highlighting the potential of critical theory for exploring and bringing new understanding to the field of organizational communication. A table describing differences among basic, applied, and participative research is included. Contains 34 references.
