Institutions of higher education, 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 has provided a new framework for understanding cultural productions. In the specific context of literature, critical theory is reader-response-based analysis and criticism of written works. Critical theory is distinguished from other forms of theory in that it “seeks human emancipation”. (James). 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, to promote democracy and equality while improving their literacy and knowledge.” (McLaren). Many of the works of famous critical theorists have inspired social justice movements around the world. In a country where younger generations are becoming increasingly apolitical and apathetic about social issues (Giroux); it becomes important for educators to find new ways to motivate students to re-engage with the public and political sphere. Critical theory can inspire students today as it has in the past. Although this branch of academia is very popular among teachers and college students, it remains omitted from the American high school English curriculum. Additionally, the rising costs of higher education (Mead 511) make it important for adolescents to obtain the most beneficial form of education from the public system. Therefore the Texas Board of Education should require the implementation of a critical theory course, as part of the social studies curriculum, for all high schools in the state. Citizens who oppose the introduction of critical theory to high school students ..... . half of the sheet ......the edition. 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 Schools Rankings.” News from the United States. USNews & World Report, April 21, 2014. Web. April 25, 2014. Risselada, David. “Progressives: Using Critical Theory to Humiliate Ourselves.” Save America Foundation. Np, 24 February 2014. Web. 28 April 2014.Schneider, Marco. "How much is that degree really worth? The million dollar misconception." Writing topics: a rhetoric with readings. 9th ed. New Jersey: Pearson, 2012. 511-19. Print.United States of America. Texas Education Agency. Evaluation and Accountability Department. Texas public school enrollment, 2012-2013. Austin: Texas Board of Education, 2014. Texas Education Agency. Texas Education Agency. Network. April 24. 2014.