What is Critical Theory? The first principle splits society into two social groups of the “oppressor” and the “oppressed”. This was in large part borrowed and developed Karl Marx. You might often hear critical theory also called “cultural Marxism”. The second principle of critical theory centers on the existence of hegemony. Hegemony is when the oppressor use their power and influence in the realms of politics, society, and culture to dominate the oppressed group. This is popularly and simply known as systemic oppression. The third principle presumes that knowledge and truth be centered around an individual’s lived experience and group identities. This empower the oppressed groups with special knowledge typically unavailable to the oppressor groups. This makes the oppressed group better situated to speak to issues of injustice and disparity. Conversely, it should also be noted that according to critical theory, the oppressor groups will use the idea of objectivity to downplay lived experience and keep oppressed groups marginalized. Lastly, critical theory seeks to “liberate” and “emancipate” oppressed groups from their oppressors. This could happen in several ways, but typically it occurs on a spectrum between two scenarios: Revolution, where the oppressed forcefully overthrow their oppressors. Peaceful transfer, where oppressor groups willingly surrender their power and influence to the oppressed groups. In general, critical theory doesn’t merely seek to explain how society operates but also seeks to achieve liberation. The strengths of CT? The evil existence of oppression ( Psalms 103:6, Psalms 73:8, Exodus 3:9, Exodus 22:21, Leviticus 25:17 ) The existence and abuse of hegemonic powers ( Ephesians 6:12 ) The importance of listening to others’ lived experience ( Proverbs 18:1-3, James 1:19 ) Interest convergence ( Matthew 6:1-3 ) Jesus transcends nationalities ( John 4:1-42 ) The weaknesses of CT? CT is premised on the idea that material disparities observed along racial lines are the result of racism. While we should acknowledge the many ways in which the sins of the past and present contribute to racial disparities or other injustices, making an immediate correlation between any disparity and discrimination is simplistic. CT also draws from postmodernism, it presents the lived experience of minorities as an authoritative source of truth. It’s important to listen to one another’s lived experience, as it can help make us aware of blind spots in our own ways of thinking. However, if lived experience is held as the highest source of knowledge, this undermines the authority and sufficiency of God’s Word as the final arbiter of truth (2 Timothy 3:16-17). CT is overly skeptical of people’s motivations and the racial progress that has been made. As I mentioned above, interest convergence has some truth to it. Nevertheless, as Christians, we are commanded to act without selfishness (Philippians 2:3-4). On the other hand, CT can end up filtering everything through our racial or other group identities. Placing such emphasis on group identity runs counter to the biblical narrative, which presents humanity as fundamentally united. We are united in creation, being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27) and having a common lineage to Adam (Acts 17:26). We are united in our sinfulness and our need for forgiveness in Christ (Romans 3:21-26), and in Christ, we have an identity, faith, and unity that transcends our group identities (Colossians 1:19-23, 3:11; Galatians 3:28). We become one new humanity in him (Ephesians 2:14-18). This results in a forgiveness, reconciliation, unity, peace and Godly worship (Revelation 7:9-11) amongst groups which is unattainable under CRT.
