Beyond Theorising: Distinguishing Between the Limitations of Critical Theory and the Researcher

Abstract

This chapter examines critical theory as a paradigm in tourism research, especially in studies pertaining to institutional arrangement and sectoral governance. As tourism becomes increasingly politicised, critical theory is one of the keys to decipher the ideological framing of tourism. In particular, critical theory recognises the performative narrative power of tourism and its hegemonic role in legitimising mainstream discourse. However, while critical theory is instrumental in unmasking the biases in an institutional framework, it is highly challenging to transform critical theory from a mode of inquiry into a reform agenda. Critical theorists often do not offer viable solutions to redress the injustices that they unmask. In tourism studies, some critical theorists have implicitly acknowledged the drawback of critical theory by limiting the boundary of their studies to the theoretical exploration of tourism phenomena. Further, critical theorist’s dismissal of the legal system as biased, hierarchical and morally objectionable deprives them of a valuable platform for change. Where oppression or injustices are unveiled, critical theory calls for transformation by envisioning an alternative socio-political order. In this chapter, I argue that such rhetoric is not helpful in the formulation of an action plan in a tourism context. A researcher who underestimates the level of radicalism inherent in critical theory may be forced to choose between abandoning the paradigm or setting forth vague, hazy recommendations that defy implementation.