Critical theories and approaches to human communication are conceptualized, studied, and applied in a variety of ways by the scholars and practitioners. Conventionally speaking, critical perspectives examine and analyze the relationships of power, forms of domination, and the underlying social structures that constrain human freedom, with an intention of overcoming oppressions and transcending contemporary social realities. However, some contemporary scholars, challenge critical theories and their self-reflexive and emancipatory potentials; they question the credibility and rigor of critical studies and label them as ‘grievance studies’ (i.e., according to them, critical theories are less interested in finding truth, and more invested to make complaints), and thereby, they argued that such approaches corrupting the academic research. On the other hand, ongoing debates on critical communication domain oftentimes focus on engaging praxis and applied aspects, specifically on how to bring about meaningful and mindful transformations and societal justice, particularly in the underserved contexts. For example, how can we (re)envision about advocacy, action, creativity (i.e., creative imagination and expression), relationships (between academia and wider societal stakeholders) and transformative practices in practically addressing emerging glocal challenges.
Thus, this themed issue asks us as a discipline to critically rethink and revisit the concepts, scopes and applications of critical communication. The following topics are of particular interest when considering the interdisciplinary nature of critical communication:
- (Re)-envisioning/-conceptualizing critical communication
- Review of critical communication literature
- New paradigmatic thinking on critical communication
- Interdisciplinary approaches to critical communication
- Rethinking on engaged and applied critical communication
- Newer ways of doing advocacy, and action research
- Reflection on creativity and creative-turn on critical communication
- Engaging critical research and role of academia in transforming society
