marxistisch

Marxistisch refers to the philosophical, economic, and political ideas developed by Karl Marx (1818–1883) and Friedrich Engels (1820–1895), primarily outlined in works such as The Communist Manifesto (1848) and Das Kapital (1867–1894). The term encompasses a broad range of theories centered on class struggle, historical materialism, and the critique of capitalism as a system of exploitation.

At its core, Marxism analyzes society through the lens of economic relations, arguing that human history is shaped by the material conditions of production. It identifies two primary classes: the bourgeoisie (owners of the means of production) and the proletariat (wage laborers), whose conflict drives social change. Marxists contend that capitalism inherently generates inequality, alienation, and periodic crises, ultimately leading to its replacement by a classless, communist society where resources are collectively owned.

Key concepts include historical materialism, which posits that societal development is determined by economic factors rather than ideological or cultural ones, and the labor theory of value, which asserts that the value of goods is derived from the labor required to produce them. Marxism also emphasizes dialectical materialism, a process of change driven by contradictions within systems.

The theory has influenced political movements worldwide, inspiring socialist and communist parties, labor unions, and revolutionary groups. While Marxism has been adapted into various schools of thought—such as orthodox Marxism, revisionism, and later critical theory—its foundational principles remain central to debates on economic justice, social equality, and systemic change. Critics argue that Marxist predictions about capitalism’s collapse have not materialized, while supporters highlight its role in advocating for workers' rights and progressive social reforms.