Theories of development: Marxist

Marxist Theory Overview

Marxist theory of development centres on the idea that true development can only occur through a radical transformation of society, involving the overthrow of capitalism and the establishment of socialism.
Marxist theorists believe that under capitalism, development benefits only the bourgeois or the ruling class. This is due to the exploitation of the proletariat, the working class, which restricts their ability to develop and improve their socioeconomic conditions.
For Marxists, development is inherently linked to the concept of historical materialism, understanding society’s evolution through the lens of changes in economic systems.

Core Features of Marxist Development Theory

Class struggle: For Marxists, conflict between the ruling class (bourgeoisie) and the working class (proletariat) is the driving force of social change. The proletariat’s struggle against their exploitation leads to revolutions, ultimately resulting in the replacement of capitalism with socialism.
Capitalism: Marxists argue that within the capitalist system, the bourgeois appropriates surplus value produced by the proletariat. This leads to wealth and development for the ruling class, while the working class remains exploited and underdeveloped.
Imperialism and Dependency: Marxists believe that capitalism leads to imperialism, as developed nations exploit the resources and labour of underdeveloped ones to maintain and increase their wealth. This results in a dependency relationship where underdeveloped countries are unable to escape the cycle of underdevelopment.
Socialism: For Marxists, socialism is viewed as the solution to the inequalities produced by capitalism, leading to a more equal distribution of wealth and development.

The Role of the State

Marxists perceive the state as a tool in the hands of the bourgeoisie used to maintain and advance their economic interests. Thus, the state enforces policies and laws that reinforce capitalist exploitation.
In a socialist society, Marxists believe that the state would serve the interests of the proletariat, ensuring everyone benefits from shared resources and wealth.

Criticisms of Marxist Theory

Critics argue that Marx’s theory is too deterministic and overly simplifies complex social phenomena by reducing everything to class struggle and economic factors.
Some critics also argue that Marxist theory fails to account for other forms of inequality and power relations, such as those based on gender, race, or religion.
Moreover, the practical implementation of socialism in the real world (e.g., Soviet Union, Cuba) has often led to totalitarianism, economic inefficiency and corruption, which contradicts the Marxist ideal of a free, equal, and developed society.