Critical theorists have an intense responsibility and desire to change society. Scholars working from the critical perspective want to improve the state of society and the human condition, rather than simply define rules. Critical theory also deals with power differences, how they are harming society, and how they can be changed. The critical paradigm has produced many feminist theories, which "advocate the emancipation of marginalized groups" (Miller 289). Two theories produced include muted group theory and standpoint theory, which both look at the power struggle of women in a man's world.
             A critical ontology is very complex. The critical theorist's beliefs about reality and the nature of humans have varied throughout development. Today, critical theorists hold a more subjective view, but also value the importance of "objectification in the social world" (Miller 65). Critical theorists believe that humans have free will, and can make their own decisions, but need to grasp reality. The critical paradigm suggests that humans are living in an illusion, but also believe the world is socially constructed. For example, both muted group theory and standpoint theory look at how social structure and experience shape reality for women.
             A critical theorist's epistemological beliefs are based on critique. They feel the best way to know something is through criticizing it. This was the guideline for the research of the co-cultural theories. Muted group theory and standpoint theory look at social structure and critique it. They both focus on the marginalization of women, and discuss the favoring of the white male by society.
             The axiology of critical theory stresses the importance of being upfront with values. Critical theorists feel it is practically impossible to keep values out of the research. Values should guide research, and theorists should strive to change the social construction t...