If Foucault, why not Rawls? On enlarging the critical tent.

This article explores the evolution of critical theory, with a focus on the contributions of Jürgen Habermas. The author shares their personal experience with critical theory and highlights its expansion beyond Frankfurt and its engagement with various disciplines and thinkers. They emphasize two key achievements of Habermas's version of critical theory: the connection between validity and a postmetaphysical perspective, and the importance of distinguishing between a valid critique and a subjective belief in its validity. The article concludes by suggesting that critical theory should reflect on what makes a subjective experience of injustice a justified critique that can claim validity across different perspectives. Additionally, the article discusses the different philosophical programs within critical theory and explores the tension between those who prioritize critiquing capitalism and those who seek a more defensible ground of critique. The author suggests that critical theory can benefit from incorporating concepts from John Rawls's political liberalism to envision a society without oppression. [Extracted from the article]