Topics in Critical Theory: The Critical Theory of the Frankfurt School

The Frankfurt School developed Critical Theory as a multidisciplinary response to one central insight: that modern capitalism is not just an economic system but a force reshaping consciousness, desire, and perception itself. This seminar explores their influential analyses of entanglements between enlightenment and myth, aesthetics and politics, entertainment and social control. We work through key concepts and debates — from the culture industry to the authoritarian personality and instrumental reason — while asking what they illuminate about surveillance capitalism and the return of authoritarian politics today.