Theories of power and politics: Marxist
Theories of power and politics: Marxist
Definition of Marxist Theory
- Marxism is a socio-political and economic theory that critiques capitalism and proposes a society where workers own and control the means of production.
Marxist View of Power
- Marxists view power as essentially stemming from economic control. Those who control the means of production hold the power.
- Power is seen as class-based, with the ruling class (bourgeoisie) who own and control capitalism, exploiting the working class (proletariat).
- Marxists propose that ideological state apparatuses like schools, the media and religion are used by the bourgeoisie to maintain control over the proletariat.
Politics According to Marxism
- Politics in a capitalist society are framed as a struggle between classes. The state is seen as a tool for the bourgeoisie to maintain its dominance.
- Marxists argue that all institutions, including political ones, work in the interests of the bourgeoisie to protect capitalism and their wealth.
- Democratic processes, for Marxists, are seen as a smokescreen hiding the true structures of power, which are economic.
Marxism and Change
- Marx championed the need for a revolution by the proletariat to overthrow the bourgeoisie and establish a classless society.
- This revolution, Marx contended, would be inevitable due to the contradictions and injustices inherent in capitalism.
Critiques of Marxist Theory
- Critics argue that Marxist theory is too deterministic, discounting the potential for agency and change outside of economic structures.
- Furthermore, critics suggest Marxism simplifies the complexities of power, overlooking sources of power outside economic control and other social divisions such as ethnicity, gender, and age.
Each of these points provides a foundation for understanding Marxist views of power, politics and social change. Thorough knowledge of each of these concepts will significantly contribute to discussions about the nature of power in society.