A critique is a detailed analysis or evaluation of something, usually expressing a judgment or opinion about its strengths and weaknesses. In the context of the Gilded Age, a critique refers to the act of questioning or challenging the negative aspects of industrialization.
Related terms
Progressivism: Progressivism was an early 20th-century political movement that sought to address social problems caused by industrialization through reforms such as regulation of big business and improvements in working conditions.
Muckrakers: Muckrakers were journalists who exposed corruption and wrongdoing in politics and business during the Progressive Era. They played a crucial role in critiquing the negative effects of industrialization.
Socialism: Socialism is an economic system where industries are owned and controlled by the government or workers collectively. It emerged as an alternative to capitalism during this time period, offering a strong critique of industrialization's impact on society.