By recognizing that theories are always embedded in social and
political life, critical conceptions of theory allow for an examination of
the purposes and functions served by particular theories. However,
while such conceptions of theory recognize the unavoidability of taking
their orientation from the social context in which they are situated, their
guiding interest is one of emancipation from, rather than legitimation
and consolidation of, existing social forms. The purpose underlying
critical, as opposed to traditional, conceptions of theory is to improve
human existence by abolishing injustice (Horkheimer 1972). As articulated
by Horkheimer (1972: 215), this conception of theory does not
simply present an expression of the ‘concrete historical situation’, it also
acts as ‘a force within [that situation] to stimulate change’. It allows for
the intervention of humans in the making of their history.