The explanation of immanent critique from Grok is so magnificent, I’m just going to quote it at length (even though it pains my soul to use this tool):

Immanent critique is a method of analysis where one evaluates a system, ideology, or set of ideas using its own internal standards, assumptions, or principles — rather than applying external criteria. The goal is to reveal contradictions, inconsistencies, or unfulfilled promises within the system itself, exposing its limitations or flaws from the inside out.

For example, if you were critiquing capitalism using immanent critique, you wouldn’t judge it based on, say, moral ideals from socialism, Christianity, or Stoic philosophy. Instead, you’d look at capitalism’s own stated goals — like efficiency, freedom, or prosperity — and show how it fails to meet those goals on its own terms (e.g., how free markets lead to monopolies that undermine free markets).

The term “immanent” comes from the idea of staying within the thing being examined, as opposed to “transcendent” critique, which brings in outside perspectives. It’s a way to challenge something by holding up a mirror to itself.

Immanent critique is similar to Rapoport’s Rules for how to compose a successful critical commentary:

1. You should attempt to re-express your target’s position so clearly, vividly, and fairly that your target says, “Thanks, I wish I’d thought of putting it that way.”
2. You should list any points of agreement (especially if they are not matters of general or widespread agreement).
3. You should mention anything you have learned from your target.
4. Only then are you permitted to say so much as a word of rebuttal or criticism…..

It seems to me that there are at least two circumstances where immanent critique is the wrong approach to social change — 1.) when dealing with fascism; and 2.) when what you really need is a massive paradigm shift in science. And unfortunately we’re dealing with medical/scientific fascism, so we’re afflicted with both of these exceptions to the general rule.…

One alternative to immanent critique is revolutionary critique.

A revolutionary critique is an analysis or evaluation of a system, structure, or ideology that seeks to fundamentally challenge and overturn it, rather than merely reform or adjust it. It typically comes from a perspective that views the existing order — whether political, social, economic, or cultural — as deeply flawed, oppressive, or unsustainable, requiring radical transformation to address root causes of injustice or inefficiency.

In the fight for medical freedom no one knows for sure what will work to change hearts and minds. We probably need to hedge our bets with a multitude of different strategies and may the best one win. MAHA is pursuing a strategy akin to immanent critique that seeks to shame/cajole/encourage the scientific and medical communities to live up to their highest standards. Immanent critique has a long track record of producing enduring change in society. But we might be making a category error. Given that immanent critique has not been shown to produce change in fascistic or scientistic systems, perhaps we would be better off pursuing revolutionary change to produce the profound paradigm shifts we seek.