Higher education institutions, particularly those dedicated to the liberal arts, have recently experienced a revolution in the way culture and societies are constructed and analyzed. The gradual introduction of critical theory provided a new framework for understanding cultural productions. In the specific context of literature, critical theory is analysis and criticism based on reader responses to written works. Critical theory is distinct from other forms of theory in that it “seeks human emancipation.” (Jacques). This theory led to the creation of a new form of education: Critical Pedagogy. This form of education “challenges teachers and students to empower themselves, advance democracy and equality as they advance in their literacy and knowledge.” (McLaren). Many works by famous critical theorists have inspired social justice movements around the world. In a country where younger generations are becoming more and more apolitical and apathetic towards social issues (Giroux); it becomes important for educators to find new ways to motivate students to re-engage in the public and political spheres. Critical theory can inspire students today as it has in the past. Although this branch of academia is very popular among college teachers and students, it remains omitted from the American high school English curriculum. Additionally, the increasing costs of higher education (Mead 511) make it important that adolescents receive the most advantageous form of education in the public system. Therefore, the Texas Board of Education should require the implementation of a critical theory course, as part of its social studies curriculum, for all high schools in the state. Citizens who oppose the introduction of critical theory to secondary school students pr.... .middle of paper ......th ed. New Jersey: Pearson, 2012. 530-32. Print.McLaren, Peter and Peter Leonard. Paulo Freire: A critical encounter. London: Routledge, 1993. Print. Morse, Robert. “How States Compare in the 2014 Best High School Rankings.” American News. USNews & World Report, April 21, 2014. Web. April 25, 2014. Risselada, David. “Progressives: using critical theory to dumb us down.” » Save America Foundation. Np, February 24, 2014. Web. April 28, 2014. Schneider, Mark. "How much is this bachelor's degree really worth? The million dollar misunderstanding." Writing arguments: rhetoric with readings. 9th ed. New Jersey: Pearson, 2012. 511-19. Print.United States of America. Texas Education Agency. Department of Assessment and Accountability. Enrollment in Texas public schools, 2012-13. Austin: Texas Board of Education, 2014. Texas Education Agency. Texas Education Agency. Internet. April 24. 2014.