Sociology Plus
Critical Cultural Discourse Definition
Critical cultural discourse refers to an unrestricted and open discussion concerning social issues. This type of discourse holds the potential to challenge the ideological justifications underpinning society, facilitate the establishment of accurate accounts of social processes, and ultimately lead towards human emancipation.
Theoretical Context
While traditional theories of mass society focus on societal structures, some theorists argue that the increasing prominence of educated mass ‘publics’ within modern industrial societies fosters the necessary conditions for this critical discourse to emerge. Theorists such as Gouldner and Habermas have regarded these public spheres as instrumental in promoting such critical engagement, although it is acknowledged that the full realisation of these potential conditions remains unguaranteed.