In this book, the term "Critical Theory" has a double meaning. Author George Snedeker refers to both the work of the Frankfurt School and other neomarxist social theorists as well as any recent work in literary criticism. Using "Critical Theory," Snedeker explores the continuing relevance of new marxist social and political theory. He provides an evaluation of the contributions to contemporary social theory of the main figures of Western Marxism, including Gerog Lukacs, Edward W. Said, Raymond Williams, Jürgen Habermas, and Oliver C. Cox.