key term - Marxism

Definition

Marxism is a socio-political and economic theory developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels that critiques capitalism and advocates for a classless society achieved through the overthrow of capitalist systems. This ideology emphasizes the struggle between social classes, particularly the bourgeoisie (capitalist class) and the proletariat (working class), believing that societal change occurs through revolutionary means and historical materialism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marxism emerged in the mid-19th century as a response to the social and economic inequalities created by industrial capitalism.
2. The Communist Manifesto, published in 1848 by Marx and Engels, outlines the principles of Marxism and calls for the proletariat to rise against their bourgeois oppressors.
3. Marx believed that history is driven by class struggle, which ultimately leads to the inevitable downfall of capitalism and the rise of socialism.
4. Marxism had a profound impact on various political movements and ideologies around the world, inspiring revolutions and leading to the establishment of socialist states.
5. The implementation of Marxist principles has varied significantly across different countries, leading to diverse interpretations and practices of socialism and communism.

Review Questions

• How does Marxism explain the relationship between the proletariat and bourgeoisie, and what implications does this have for social change?
  • Marxism posits that the relationship between the proletariat and bourgeoisie is fundamentally exploitative, with the bourgeoisie profiting from the labor of the proletariat. This class struggle is seen as a driving force for social change, as Marx argued that the working class must become conscious of their oppression and unite to overthrow their capitalist oppressors. The implications of this struggle suggest that societal transformation can only occur through revolutionary action, leading to a classless society.
• Discuss how Marxism's critique of capitalism influenced political movements in the 19th century.
  • Marxism's critique of capitalism resonated with many working-class individuals who faced harsh conditions in industrialized societies. The ideas expressed in texts like The Communist Manifesto inspired labor movements and socialist parties across Europe, pushing for workers' rights and social reforms. These political movements sought to address issues such as wage disparities, poor working conditions, and lack of political representation, advocating for a shift towards more equitable economic systems based on Marxist principles.
• Evaluate the impact of Marxism on modern political ideologies and its relevance in today's socio-economic discussions.
  • Marxism has left an indelible mark on modern political ideologies, influencing not just socialism but also various forms of leftist thought. In today's socio-economic discussions, Marxist critiques continue to provide valuable insights into issues like wealth inequality, labor rights, and corporate power. As capitalism faces challenges such as economic crises and environmental degradation, Marxist principles encourage re-evaluating our economic systems to address these contemporary issues while advocating for systemic change towards greater equity and social justice.

Related terms

Proletariat:

The working class in a capitalist society who, according to Marxism, are exploited by the bourgeoisie for their labor.

Bourgeoisie:

The capitalist class who own the means of production and are responsible for exploiting the proletariat.

Historical Materialism: A methodology used in Marxism that focuses on human societies and their development through history as a result of material conditions rather than ideals.