Marxism

Question 1

General objective

Answer 1

A critique of industrial capitalism

Question 2

Background

Answer 2

Social effects of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th century
Karl Marx(1818-1883): social theory about history and the overthrow of capitalism

Question 3

19th Century Marx

Answer 3

•19th century
–Gradual improvement in working-class living conditions in Europe.
–Growth of trade unions, working-class parties, social clubs, led to greater security and integration of working class

Question 4

20th Century Marx

Answer 4

•20th century
–Ideals were spread to Africa, Asia and Latin America
–Russian revolution (1917), spreading through Easter European countries.
– Chinese Revolution (1949), spreading through South-East Asia
– Cuban Revolution (1959) inspiring many armed groups throughout Latin America

Question 5

Basic Theoretical Elements

Answer 5

Capitalism
Social class
Base
Superstructure

Question 6

Capitalism

Answer 6

mode of production that sets social relations of a particular historical period

Question 7

Social Class

Answer 7

individuals relationship to the means of production.
–Capitalist (bourgeoisie) vs. Workers (the proletariat).
–Opposing interest with no possibility of compromise (Capital vs Labour)

Question 8

Base

Answer 8

–Means of production: tools, lands, technology, etc.
–Relations of production: Private property, wages, technicians, etc.

Question 9

Superstructure

Answer 9

arts, politics, institutions, culture, religion

Question 10

Alienation

Answer 10

•In a capitalistic society individuals are alienated from themselves, their friends and families and their work.
•Most basic form: alienation of labor.
•Work is just an organic part in the process of production
•Main effect: You do not feel attached to the product and contribution you are making

Question 11

Historical Materialism

Answer 11

History reflect fundamental changes on the relations of production.

–Class struggle is the defining motor of history
–Struggle between groups sharing similar economic positions(interests) against those at different economic positions.
–Given inequality of wealth and class positions, conflicts are inevitable (revolutions).
–History is moving towards an emancipated end (classless society).