Leninism

Leninism is a political theory developed by Vladimir Lenin as an adaptation of Marxism to the conditions of early 20th-century Russia. It holds that the working class requires a vanguard party of professional revolutionaries to guide the revolutionary process, since spontaneous class consciousness is often insufficient for seizing state power. The party operates on democratic centralism, combining internal debate with centralized, unified action once a decision is made.

Following revolution, Lenin argued for the dictatorship of the proletariat as a transitional state to suppress counterrevolution and to facilitate the transition to socialism, with the state directing or owning key industries and planning the economy. This transitional state is meant to be temporary and to wither away as socialism matures.

Lenin’s theory of imperialism, articulated in Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism, describes capitalism’s export of capital and dominance of finance capital as creating a global system of exploitation. This analysis underpins an internationalist strategy emphasizing anti-imperialist solidarity, the possibility of united fronts with other classes, and the leadership role of the revolutionary party in guiding political change.

Economic policy under Lenin included the New Economic Policy (NEP), a strategic retreat that allowed limited private trade and small enterprises to revive production after civil war, while retaining state control over major industries and banks.

Legacy and influence: Leninism laid the groundwork for Marxism-Leninism, shaping the organizational and ideological framework of several socialist movements and states in the 20th century. Debates continue over the balance between party discipline, centralized authority, and democratic participation.