Brookfield (University of St. Thomas) makes a case for critical theory as a way to illuminate the everyday practices of adult educators. He presents arguments for the importance of critical theory in fostering the kind of learning that leads to a truly democratic society, and explores a number of tasks for adult learners, including learning how to challenge ideology and practice democracy. He guides readers through the key concepts of major theorists including Foucault and Habermas, and examines critiques of these theorists by thinkers such as Angela Davis and bell hooks. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)