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Title
Abstract
Key Takeaways
Introduction
Conclusion
References
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Philosophy
Continental Philosophy

Critical Theory and Organization Studies

Profile image of Paul S AdlerPaul S Adler

2014, The Oxford Handbook of Sociology, Social Theory, and Organization Studies

https://doi.org/10.1093/OXFORDHB/9780199671083.013.0023
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Abstract
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The paper explores the historical and intellectual roots of Frankfurt School critical theory, examining its critique of modern capitalism and its implications for organization studies. It highlights the influential ideas of key theorists like Marx and discusses the contradictions between social constraints and human creativity. The chapter aims to underline the emancipatory potential of critical theory in contemporary social and organizational research, advocating for a critical perspective that seeks social justice and human freedom.

Key takeaways
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  1. Critical theory critiques capitalist society, highlighting issues of alienation, consumerism, and the commodification of labor.
  2. The Frankfurt School's work underscores the historical and intellectual roots of critical theory in Marxian thought.
  3. Marx's concept of 'fetishization' illustrates how commodities can dominate human relations and consciousness.
  4. The rise of neo-liberalism demands renewed critical analysis of its socio-economic implications for modern life.
  5. Critical management studies aim to challenge the status quo of organizational behavior and promote social justice.

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FAQs

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What explains the concept of reification in critical theory?add

Reification refers to the process where social relationships are perceived as static and tangible, resulting in individuals relating to each other as objects rather than autonomous subjects, as proposed by Georg Lukács in 1923.

How did the Frankfurt School perceive the rise of consumerism?add

The Frankfurt School posited that consumerism creates false needs, where individuals are conditioned to conform to capitalist demands, leading to alienation and a loss of authentic social connections.

What role does alienation play in the critique of work under capitalism?add

Critical theorists argue that alienation under capitalism distances workers from their true selves and products of their labor, undermining meaningful interpersonal relationships and leading to a passive acceptance of exploitation.

How did Horkheimer and Adorno interpret Enlightenment rationality?add

They argued that Enlightenment rationality became instrumental, serving the needs of capitalism, thus deepening social domination instead of fostering true human liberation, as explored in their work 'Dialectic of Enlightenment'.

What insights does Marcuse offer regarding the work ethic?add

Marcuse critiques the 'performance principle' of modern work ethics, suggesting that societal structures repress instinctual drives for pleasure, advocating for transformative practices that could align work with human creativity.

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