Between forms of life and immanent criticism: towards a new critical theory?

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to examine Rahel Jaeggi’s critical theory. To this end, the analysis focuses on central aspects of Jaeggi’s account of forms of life. In addition, it considers the case for immanent criticism and its place in a critical theory of forms of life. The final section sheds light on some key issues arising from Jaeggi’s framework. The paper concludes by suggesting that Jaeggi’s approach represents a major contribution to contemporary social philosophy and that, more broadly, critical theory will continue to serve as a reservoir of conceptual tools for the study of power relations.