Theodor W. Adorno (1903–1969) was a German Jewish philosopher, sociologist, and cultural critic who played a key role in the development of the Frankfurt School. His work includes a critique of capitalist society as well as numerous sociological studies regarding the formation of authoritarian attitudes, and the ideological function of mass culture. His critical theory conceives of society in terms of the fundamental relations between individuals that are conditioned by commodity exchange. Drawing from elements of Marx, this framework understands society as a process of mediation, characterized by the domination of individuals by estranged forms and institutions. While contributing to numerous empirical studies (of authoritarianism and musical reception), Adorno's sociology criticized positivist methodologies in debates with Karl Popper. His writings on philosophy, sociology, psychoanalysis, and art continue to interest critical theorists of society.