法蘭克福學派第二代最具代表性的學者：哈伯瑪斯，不僅力求超越古典批判理論，更進一步進行重建工作，在其檢視、反省馬克思「歷史唯物論」、韋伯「合理化」概念暨其他學說後，提出「溝通理論」。哈伯瑪斯期望藉由「溝通理性」之實踐、透過開放平等的溝通管道，建立一個包括規範性與批判性的合理化概念與共識，進而成為造福人類生活的正面力量。 本文自「反省、批判與重建」剖析哈伯瑪斯之學術特色並指出其批判之主要論據為「溝通理論」，進而自溝通理論的醞釀期、建構期、完成期等三期，探索溝通理論之建構與內涵，最後援引洪鎌德教授之論著與見解，介紹哈伯瑪斯近年所致力研究的兩界說與法律觀，以了解溝通理論之應用與影響，期能藉以窺此學術巨流之梗概。

Jürgen Habermas, the best-known scholar of the Frankfurt School, has been devoted to the study and reconstruction of Critical Theory. He reviews Karl Marx's Historical Materialism, Max Weber's Theory of Rationalization, and other related theories; reflecting on what he has read, he then reconstructs and proposes his own theory--Communication Theory. He points out that, if we communicate or negotiate rationally, we can obtain a basic rational concept and consensus. This article deals with the content of Communication Theory by going over the processes how Jüren Habermas conceives, organizes, revises, and finally comes up with the theory. Then the author will review Professor Hung's views and criticism on the conception of law and the theory of the two separate worlds--the world of life and the world of social system. It is hoped that this article will give those who are interested in Communication Theory an opportunity to have a better understanding about Communication Theory along with its application and influence.