Critical theory of society as a self-reflection of the human species (based on the work of Jürgen Habermas “Knowledge and human interests")

The paper analyzes the development of critical theory in relation to human interests in Jürgen Habermas’ “Knowledge and human interests”. The key issue is interaction between the different types of cognitive activity, the ratio of the natural sciences and social sciences. Purpose of the article is to examine the critical theory as an essential element of the social sciences, to demonstrate a link between theory and critical communicative and emancipative interests; to trace the origin of Jurgen Habermas’ discourse ethics through critical reception of the works of Karl Marx and Wilhelm Dilthey.