Critical theorists have given us much to think about on behalf of oppressed groups as they address matters of knowledge, power and educational practices. However, critical theory is not without its critics. Postmodernists dispute some aspects of critical theory and point out difficulties in the application of the principles of critical theory. Some postmodernists argue that critical theory has become elitist and has moved away from its roots in Marxism. They claim that critical theory denies notions of subjectivity and values in social investigations and considers social sciences to be objective and neutral.

McCarthy (as cited in Peters et al, 2003) criticizes critical theory for its lack of concern about limits. He feels that the notion of emancipation which is viewed as a form of self-realization is exaggerated. Others deride the heavy emphasis of critical theory on culture alone, with not enough attention to economics or politics. McCarthy feels that there is a problem with every social movement from feminist theory to gay and lesbian studies and postcolonial studies specializing and trying to promote their cause. He argues that this emphasis has taken away from economics and that a need has arisen to continually develop critical theory to address the concerns of new social movements. McCarthy has also come down hard on critical theory for being tied too close to academic work and being too far from the lived experiences of oppression of those being studied.

In summary, critical theorists point to a need for the oppressed to question and challenge the way things have been done and place power issues at the centre (M. Hart, 1990). The ideals used to criticize are rooted in experience and challenge hegemonic ideas (Young, 1990). Critical theorists must analyze, interpret and actively criticize oppressive social structures that characterize contemporary society. In becoming critical, individuals may help transform themselves and assist others in oppressive social conditions. One limitation of using critical theory rests in determining whether it is attainable for those in oppressive conditions to effectively use critical reflection to gain required knowledge. It may be that individuals in these circumstances are working so hard simply to exist that they do not have the luxury of time, language resources or other means to think about the oppressive social conditions.