The notion of "struggle" in Axel Honneth's recognition theory. On the possibility of overcoming the "sociological deficit" of Critical Theory with the help of Discourse Analysis

The main work of Axel Honneth, actually the most relevant author of the third generation of the Frankfurt School, The Struggle for Recognition, is having a broad reception. Nevertheless, this reception is widely concentrated on the topic of recognition. It's threatening to divert attention from the concept of struggle and of social conflicts. The present article aims to highlight the main axes of what could be today a Critical Theory of social struggles. Discourse theory is used for helping to overcome the "sociological deficit" of Critical Theory. We show that Honneth's work presents an important contribution for sociological research about social conflicts and social change. He does not confront individuals and society but recognises the mutual value of each for the other.