Marxism Flashcards
(33 cards)
Who founded Marxist theory?
Karl Marx, in the 19th century.
What are the two main social classes in Marxist theory?
The bourgeoisie (owners) and the proletariat (workers).
What is the main cause of conflict in society, according to Marxism?
Class struggle between the rich and the poor.
How does Marxism view capitalism?
As a system based on exploitation of workers for profit.
In Marxism, what drives politics and war?
Economic interests and capitalist profit.
What does Marxism focus on in global politics?
Economic structures, inequality, and exploitation.
What is the main actor in Marxist IR theory?
Economic classes and global capital — not just states.
How do Marxists explain international conflict?
As the result of economic competition and capitalist expansion.
What is imperialism in Marxist IR?
The process of rich countries expanding to exploit poorer ones for resources and labour.
Why do Marxists say capitalism causes war?
War protects markets, profits, and elite control of resources.
What is World Systems Theory?
A Marxist theory dividing the world into core, semi-periphery, and periphery zones.
What are core countries?
Rich, industrialised countries that consume and dominate global markets.
What are periphery countries?
Poorer, less developed countries that provide cheap labour and raw materials.
What is the global division of labour?
Core consumes; periphery produces cheaply under exploitative conditions.
Example of core-periphery relationship?
UK (core) imports cheap garments from India (periphery).
According to Marxism, what does capitalism rely on?
Cheap labour, cheap materials, and profit maximisation.
What is global exploitation in Marxist terms?
Using workers in poor countries to keep costs low for rich consumers.
What does Marxism say about “ethical” companies?
They often hide exploitation in supply chains while promoting a clean image.
Example of hidden exploitation in supply chains?
Uyghur forced labour used by global brands like Apple and Nike.
What’s the Marxist view on global inequality?
It’s a structural feature of capitalism, not an accident.
Who is Antonio Gramsci?
A Marxist who introduced the concept of hegemony.
What is hegemony?
The idea that capitalism survives by winning people’s consent, not just force.
How does capitalism gain consent, according to Gramsci?
Through media, education, and “common sense” ideas.
Example of capitalist hegemony?
People believing “there’s no alternative” to capitalism.
