Pronunciation

/ˈmɑːrksɪzəm/

Definitions

• Noun: An economic and social theory developed by Karl Marx that focuses on the struggle between capitalists and the working class (proletariat), advocating for collective ownership of the means of production, distribution, and exchange. It forms the basis for various political movements and ideologies such as communism.

Phrases

• “Marxist theory” refers to the body of concepts and principles associated with Marxism.
• “Cultural Marxism” is a controversial term referring to the application of Marxist theories to cultural and societal analysis.
• “Leninism/Maoism/Trotskyism” are examples of political ideologies derived from or influenced by Marxism.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The course covered the historical development of Marxism and its impact on 20th-century politics.”
• “Their research was heavily influenced by Marxist perspectives on labor relations and social inequality.”

Synonyms

• Communism
• Socialism (Note: While related, these terms are not exact synonyms; they represent broader ideologies that incorporate aspects of Marxism.)
• Marxist ideology
• Marxist doctrine

Further Explanation

Marxism posits that society’s progress is driven by material conditions and class struggle. It critiques capitalism, arguing that it inevitably leads to exploitation and alienation. The ultimate goal of Marxism is the establishment of a classless society where goods and services are produced and distributed based on need rather than profit. Key tenets include the labor theory of value, the idea of surplus value, and the concept of historical materialism. Marxism has had significant influence on political systems, academic disciplines like sociology and economics, and global social movements.