Critical Theory is a sociological and philosophical approach dedicated to analyzing and, when possible, correcting oppression and dominance or hegemony of one group over another. Here Jacob Glazier discusses how this academic movement is relevant for the study of exceptional experiences.

Here he describes the marginal scientific status of both parapsychology (data looking for a theory) and psychoanalysis (a theory looking for data). He points to the specific role of Jacques Lacan in focusing on the linguistic aspects of psychoanalysis. He examines some of the internal contradictions with parapsychology, such as its emphasis on the empirical [...]

Here he focuses on the philosophical, political, and linguistic writings of Jacques Derrida, particularly his book Specters of Marx. Derrida invokes concepts such as conjuration and exorcism to describe philosophical processes. As one of the founders of the post-modern, deconstruction movement, Derrida wielded an enormous influence on twentieth century academic discourse. Glazier relates this intellectual [...]

Here he discusses a constellation of philosophical perspectives – going back to Nietzsche, Husserl, and Heidegger – and their implications for science in general and parapsychology in particular. The discussion is also peppered with references to feminism, psychoanalysis, marginalized social groups, post-structuralism, and the European Enlightenment. He points out that William James was, essentially, a [...]