Influenced by Kant, Marx, and other critical philosophy writers, the formation of the critical theories in
international
relations was closely associated with the intellectual movements of anti-globalization, anti-positivism, neo-Marxism, and especially the Frankfurt School. The critical theories argue that positivism cannot be totally applied to the study of
international relations which, however, should pay attention to human emancipation as well as problem-solving. Furthermore, the focus on technical governance should be opposed because its hegemony does harm to the construction of international relations, and it is necessary to constrain strategic
rationality and promote communicative rationality for the sake of human freedom. The influences are manifold. The critical theories have greatly changed the direction of epistemological study, redefined the concept of social science, shaken the foundation of discursive hegemony, promoted the multiple developments of international relations, and prepared intellectually for the rise of social constructivism. In addition, they have provided inspiration to our studies of Marxist thought on international relations.