Abstract: In the 20^th century, critical theories emerged in a spectacular succession. The book, Critical Theory in Russia and the West, edited by Alastair Renfrew and Galin Tihanov, two famous scholars active in the British and American literary circles, re-displays the travelling and dialogic scenes of critical theories across cultural boundaries in the 20^th century, re-excavates the values and cultural philosophies deeply rooted in the text, and reconsiders the similarities or contradictions between Russian and Western critical theories. It presents broad comparative perspectives, strong problem consciousness, and distinct characteristics of historical studies. All this may serve as an enlightenment on our construction of a theoretical discursive system with Chinese characteristics and our participation in the “trilateral dialogue” between China, the West and Russia.

Key words: Alastair Renfrew, Galin Tihanov, Critical Theory in Russia and the West, theoretical travel, trilateral dialogue