Critical Applied Linguistics: Keeping Examining the Givens and Looking for Alternatives

Critical applied linguistics （CALx） is radically different from mainstream applied linguistics in that is not only incorporates social, historical and ideological factors in language education but also takes interest in improving existing situations. It espouses a dynamic model of society and keeps raising the awareness of inequalities and questioning the taken-for-granted assumptions. From a reflective perspective, this article described the historical connections of CALx, discussed its philosophies, aim, domains, and approaches to TESOL, and examined the relative strengths and weaknesses of CALx. The purpose of this article was to encourage language education practitioners to embrace a reflective and critical attitude towards the givens and keep looking for better alternatives. English education in Taiwan, under the policy of English as a mainstream language in globalization, especially needs input from CALx so that hasty policies can be avoided.