Theodor Adorno (1903-69) was one of the foremost philosophers and social theorists of the post-war period. The principal architect of Critical Theory, his influential but often difficult writings cover a dazzling array of subjects including philosophy, literature, art, music and political theory. In this comprehensive introduction, Brian O¿Connor explains Adorno¿s philosophy for those coming to his work for the first time. Beginning with an overview of Adorno¿s life and key works and placing him in the context of the intellectual environment in which he worked, he introduces and assesses all the key aspects of Adorno¿s philosophy. He carefully examines the distinctive style and methodology of Adorno¿s philosophy, showing how much of his work is grounded in the criticism of Enlightenment thought and reason. He then discusses the topics to which Adorno made significant contributions: his epistemology, including the important concepts of mediation, identity and non-identity, and dialectics; Adorno¿s social theory, in particular his theories of reification and ideology; his writings on morality; and Adorno¿s philosophy of art, including his important theories of imitation and autonomy in art. The final chapter considers Adorno¿s philosophical legacy and importance today. Adorno is an ideal introduction to this demanding but important thinker and essential reading for students of philosophy, sociology and literature.