Abstract

In this dissertation I argue that the critical social theories of Sartre and Foucault leave us with an unfinished philosophical project. I show that Sartre and Foucault each effectively criticize the claim to value-neutrality made in both the epistemological and positivist traditions. I then show that their different reconstructions of knowledge demonstrate its necessarily value-laden nature. I then argue that Sartre and Foucault, like Marx, each conclude that for social theory to be critical it must assume a practical standpoint. Finally, I conclude that the nature of this practical standpoint is left ill-defined by both Sartre and Foucault and suggest that the work of Habermas might offer the basis for an adequate theorization of the practical commitment necessary for critical social theory