The Communist Manifesto

Definition

The Communist Manifesto is a political pamphlet written by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, published in 1848, that outlines the principles of communism and critiques capitalism. The manifesto argues that history is driven by class struggles and calls for the proletariat, or working class, to rise against the bourgeoisie, or capitalist class, to establish a classless society. Its ideas sparked revolutions and movements aimed at transforming socio-economic systems worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Communist Manifesto was commissioned by the Communist League, a group of socialist workers, and serves as one of the most influential political texts in history.
2. The opening line famously declares, 'A spectre is haunting Europe—the spectre of communism,' emphasizing the fear and recognition of growing communist movements.
3. The manifesto outlines ten measures for establishing a communist society, including progressive income tax and free education, highlighting its revolutionary intent.
4. Marx and Engels argue that all previous societies have been based on class struggles, asserting that capitalism will inevitably lead to its own downfall.
5. Despite being published in the mid-19th century, The Communist Manifesto remains relevant today, inspiring various political movements and discussions around social justice and economic inequality.

Review Questions

• How does The Communist Manifesto explain the concept of class struggle and its significance in historical development?
  • The Communist Manifesto explains that class struggle is the driving force behind historical development, positing that society's progress can be understood through the conflicts between different social classes. Marx and Engels argue that each historical period is characterized by a dominant class that exploits the working class. This ongoing struggle shapes political systems and economic structures, ultimately leading to the emergence of a revolutionary consciousness among the proletariat.
• In what ways does The Communist Manifesto critique capitalism and propose an alternative social order?
  • The Communist Manifesto critiques capitalism by highlighting how it leads to inequality, exploitation, and alienation among workers. Marx and Engels argue that capitalism prioritizes profit over human welfare, creating a system where the bourgeoisie benefits at the expense of the proletariat. They propose an alternative social order based on collective ownership of production means, aiming for a classless society where resources are distributed according to need rather than profit.
• Evaluate the historical impact of The Communist Manifesto on global political movements and its relevance in contemporary discussions about capitalism.
  • The Communist Manifesto has had a profound historical impact on global political movements, serving as a foundational text for various socialist and communist ideologies. Its ideas inspired revolutions in countries such as Russia and China, influencing national policies and labor movements worldwide. In contemporary discussions about capitalism, its critiques resonate amid rising economic inequality, sparking debates about wealth distribution and social justice, indicating that Marx's insights remain pertinent in addressing today's socio-economic challenges.

Related terms

Marxism: A socio-economic theory developed by Karl Marx, emphasizing the role of class struggle in societal change and advocating for a classless society through the abolition of private property.

Proletariat:

The working class in a capitalist society who sell their labor for wages and are seen as the revolutionary force in Marxist theory.

Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class who own the means of production and are seen as the oppressors of the proletariat according to Marxist theory.