Definition
Marxism argues that economic systems shape social relations and that capitalism contains conflicts between owners and workers. It anticipates transformative class struggle and a post-capitalist society.
Political Dictionary
Marxism
Marxism is a theory of history, economics, and politics centered on class conflict and material conditions.
Why It Matters
It has influenced labor movements, socialist parties, revolutions, academic theory, and criticism of capitalism.
How It Works
Marxist analysis examines ownership, class, production, ideology, and historical change.
History
Developed principally by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels in the nineteenth century, Marxism later divided into many schools.
Example
A Marxist interpretation may explain a political conflict through competing class interests.
Common Misconceptions
- Marxism is one single political program.
- Every socialist is a Marxist.
- Marxism and communism are interchangeable terms.
Related Terms
Related Topics
See Also