This document provides an introduction to critical theory and discusses several theorists within this framework. It outlines the goals of understanding critical theory and examining the relationships between critical theorists and ideas of community. Key theorists discussed include Paulo Freire, Jürgen Habermas, and thinkers from the Frankfurt School such as Adorno, Fromm, Horkheimer and Marcuse. Paulo Freire's educational philosophy and concept of conscientização (critical consciousness) are explained as an example of critical theory. The document also discusses using critical theory to deconstruct power dimensions within social relations and promote humanizing liberation processes.