Definition of Marxism

Marxism is a social, economic, and political theory that originates from the works of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. It is based on the analysis of historical materialism and aims to understand and transform society through the lens of class struggle and the development of capitalism.

Key Principles of Marxism

• Historical Materialism: Marxism integrates the materialist understanding of history, considering the economic base and class relations as the primary drivers of societal change.
• Class Struggle: Marxism emphasizes the conflict between the bourgeoisie (owners of capital) and the proletariat (working class) as the central driving force for social revolution.
• Capitalist Exploitation: Marxists argue that capitalism inherently exploits workers through surplus value extraction, resulting in social inequality and alienation.
• Dialectical Materialism: Marxism applies the dialectical method to understand contradictions in society, analyzing contradictions between classes and their resolution through revolutionary means.
• Socialism and Communism: Marxism advocates for the establishment of a socialist state as a transitional phase, leading to the ideal of a classless communist society.

Impact and Criticisms of Marxism

Marxism has significantly influenced various fields, including politics, sociology, and economics. Critics argue that it overlooks individual freedoms, underestimates the importance of market mechanisms, and its implementation historically led to authoritarian regimes. However, Marxist ideas continue to shape debates on class struggle, inequality, and the role of capitalism in modern society.