This text deals with features considered of importance for the general comprehension of the concept of instrumental reason. Primarily, in the article, a few themes inscribed in the philosophical foundation of modern times are pointed out, and therefore, provide aid for an understanding of the critical history of reason formulated by Adorno and Horkheimer. Strategic points for the debate of the dialectics of Illuminism are discussed, with the objective of highlighting the necessity of considering the contradictions present in the development of illuministic reason such as progress/regression as well as autonomy/domination.
Illuminism; Instrumental reason; History; Theory; Criticism