The Marxism-Leninism Quick Study Guide
Is theory important, let's ask the most respected mind on the subject in the communist realm.
"Practice without theory is blind, theory without practice is sterile". - Karl Marx
Think you know communism? You've heard the phrases: 'a stateless, classless, moneyless society,' 'Workers of the world unite,' and 'each according to their ability, each according to their need.' But beware: without a deeper understanding, you may fall prey to grifters and fascists who exploit good intentions.
Unfortunately, some have already fallen victim and some inadvertently enable exploitation by refusing to acknowledge that anyone, regardless of wealth or status, can exploit others for personal gain. There is no such thing as excusable exploitation, and attempting to do so only sustains our problems.
Marxist-Leninism can seem overwhelming, with complex historical and scientific data. Theory can be repetitive and hard to understand. I acknowledge that most theoretical writings could benefit from revision, simplifying them to focus on relevant information.
This summary aims to educate the curious and protect those with genuine aspirations. Each section provides key concepts of Marxist-Leninism, followed by a concise summary.
Remember, this is just basic information. For further clarification, explore the audio book study guide playlist linked at the end of this blog – the main resource I used.
The sections are broken down into 15 categories and each category has subcategories. Here are the 15 categories I divided the summary guide into:
I. Dialectics, Dialectical Materialism and Philosophy
II. Historical Materialism
III. Class Struggle and Capitalism
IV. Value, Labor, and Capital
V. Critique of Idealism, Social-Darwinism and Capitalism
VI. Transition to Socialism
VII. Critique of Bourgeois Ideology
VIII. Revolutionary Strategy, Rules, Unity, Legacy, the Transition to Communism, Rules and the Dictatorship of the Proletariat
IX. Imperialism and Global Capitalism
X. Marxist Theory and Methodology
XI. Critique of Revisionism and Reformism
XII. Communist Movement, Party Building, Internationalism and Hive-mind Collectivism
XIII. Historical Development of Marxism, Primitive and Indigenous Socialism-Communism, and Practice
XIV. Opposing Ideologies, False Friends and Opportunists
XV. Authoritarian Collective Well-Being versus Anti-Authority Individualism
*The Founding Principles of Communism*
1. Humanism: prioritizing human dignity, well-being, and happiness.
2. Humanitarianism: promoting compassion, empathy, and altruism.
3. Egalitarianism: advocating equal rights, opportunities, and social justice.
4. Scientism: embracing scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and rationality.
5. Rationalism: valuing logic, evidence-based decision-making, and intellectual honesty.
6. Intellectualism: fostering critical thinking, education, and cultural enrichment.
7. Proportionalism: ensuring fairness, balance, and proportion in social and economic relations.
8. Philosophy: encouraging critical examination of values, ethics, and reality.
9. Secularism: separating religion from state and promoting neutral governance.
10. Kantianism: upholding moral principles, universalism, and respect for human dignity.
11. Deontology: emphasizing duty, responsibility, and moral obligations.
11. Internationalism: solidarity and cooperation among nations
12. Class consciousness: recognizing and addressing class struggle
13. Dialectical materialism: understanding historical and societal change
*Opposed Principles by Communists*
1. Egoism: self-centeredness, individualism, and lack of empathy.
2. Social Darwinism: promoting competition, survival of the fittest, and social inequality.
3. Irrationalism: rejecting reason, science, and critical thinking.
4. Opportunism: exploiting situations for personal gain without regard for others.
5. Solipsism: prioritizing individual interests over collective well-being.
6. Autarchism: advocating isolationism, self-sufficiency, and disregard for global interdependence.
7. Selfish Volunteerism: using volunteerism for personal benefit rather than collective good.
8. Sacralism: promoting religious dogma over human well-being and rational inquiry.
*Individualism*
*Supported individualism*
1. Empathic: understanding and sharing others' feelings.
2. Sympathetic: showing compassion and concern for others.
3. Altruistic: prioritizing others' needs over personal interests.
4. Selfless: putting collective well-being above individual desires.
5. Humane: treating others with kindness, respect, and dignity.
6. Benevolent: acting charitably and promoting social welfare.
*Individualiam Opposed*
1. Machiavellian: manipulating others for personal gain.
2. Megalomaniac: seeking power, control, and domination.
3. Narcissistic: prioritizing self-importance, vanity, and ego.
4. Predatory Narcissistic: exploiting others for personal benefit.
5. Psychopathic: lacking empathy, impulsivity, and disregard for others' rights.
6. Sociopathic: lacking empathy, impulsivity, and disregard for others' well-being.
*Communist Core Values*
1. Collective well-being: prioritizing humanity's shared interests.
2. Planetary sustainability: preserving the environment for future generations.
3. Human rights: upholding universal dignity, equality, and justice.
4. Fair labor practices: ensuring equitable compensation and working conditions.
5. Humanist democracy: promoting participatory governance and social justice.
*Communist Strategies and Goals*
1. Unified global community: fostering international cooperation and solidarity.
2. Force and violence (when necessary): defending humanity and the planet.
3. Dictatorship of the proletariat (transitional phase): empowering the working class.
4. Collective stewardship: sharing resources and responsibilities.
5. Eliminating exploitation, oppression, and human rights violations.
6. Social justice: equal access to resources and opportunities
7. Equality: eliminating discrimination and oppression
8. Democracy: participatory governance and decision-making
*Communist Requirements*
1. Understanding communist principles and values.
2. Adhering to communist ethics and moral code.
3. Committing to collective well-being and planetary sustainability.
4. Ongoing self-criticism and self-improvement
5. Commitment to lifelong learning and education
6. Willingness to challenge and transform existing power structures
*Communist Ethics and Moral Code*
1. Respect for human dignity and rights.
2. Empathy and compassion towards all individuals.
3. Honesty, transparency, and accountability.
4. Fairness, justice, and equality in all interactions.
5. Responsibility to the collective and planet.
6. Selflessness and altruism in decision-making.
7. Critical thinking and intellectual honesty.
8. Cultural sensitivity and diversity appreciation.
9. Loyalty to the collective and the cause
10. Critique of individualism and selfishness
11. Emphasis on community and mutual support
This expanded version clarifies communist principles, values, and ethics, emphasizing empathy, altruism, and collective well-being.
Communism upholds principles of humanism, egalitarianism, scientism, rationalism, and secularism, opposing egoism, social Darwinism, and opportunism. Communists support empathic individualism, prioritizing collective well-being and planetary sustainability. They seek to liberate humanity from oppression, unite people into a hive-mind for collective well-being, and abolish private property and segregation. Communism emphasizes critical thinking, education, and revolutionary transformation, prioritizing human rights and equality. Force and violence may be necessary to protect humanity or the planet. The transitional "dictatorship of the proletariat" will give way to collective stewardship, eliminating exploitation, oppression, and human rights violations. Communism promotes collective sovereignty, abolishing individual sovereignties that divide and oppress. Adherence to communist principles is essential.
And now the Marxist-Leninists Study Guide Summary:
Dialectics, Dialectical Materialism and Philosophy
Marxist-Leninist philosophy is rooted in dialectics, dialectical materialism, and critical thinking. This foundational framework emphasizes the dynamic and interconnected nature of reality, where contradictions drive development and transformation. By understanding the dialectical relationships between material conditions, consciousness, and society, Marxist-Leninists seek to liberate humanity from oppressive systems and achieve a communalist society. The following principles outline the core tenets of Marxist-Leninist thought.
*1. Understanding Dialectical Relationships*
1. Dialectics is a universal process of laws, encompassing knowledge and evolution.
2. Dialectics proves nature's process is dialectical, not metaphysical.
3. Recognizing natural laws and dialectics turns necessity into freedom.
4. Societal norms and values change over time.
5. Reality and consciousness are interconnected.
6. Human evolution and thinking evolve together.
7. Nature works dialectically.
8. Reality is based on perception and experience (historic materialism).
9. Opposites coexist and transform into each other in given conditions
10. Identity of opposites exists only in necessary conditions
12. Principal and non-principal aspects transform into each other
13. New aspects supersede old ones
14. Reality is constantly changing and developing
15. Leaps in development involve revolutionary transformations
16 Reality is constantly changing and developing
17. Reality is dynamic, with inner differentiation, motion, and change
18. Universe's state is not static or self-equal
19. Dialectics integrates analysis and synthesis
20. Dialectical thinking replaces metaphysical thinking
21. Dialectics is essential for understanding historical development
22. Abstracting from the historical process limits understanding
23. Philosophical development is a continuous process
24. Historical Determinism: Understanding historical context and development.
Dialectics is a universal process governing knowledge, evolution, and history. It recognizes natural laws, contradictions, and interconnectedness. Reality is dynamic and constantly changing, driven by contradictory opposites transforming into each other. Key principles include recognizing natural laws, interconnectedness, and the dynamic nature of reality. Embracing dialectics enables conscious action, understanding historical development, and liberating humanity from oppressive systems, replacing metaphysical thinking with a comprehensive framework for understanding the world.
*2. Materialism vs. Idealism*
1. Marx argued that humans are products of nature.
2. Materialism results from existence, and social consciousness stems from social existence.
3. Philosophical materialism frees people from spiritual slavery.
4. Materialism is consistent and opposed by anti-democratic forces.
5. Material conditions shape history.
6. Materialism supports agnosticism.
7. Materialist conception opposes idealism
8. Materialist conception prioritizes the external world over thought
9. Thought and reality are interconnected
10. Thought and reality should not be separated
11. Being lacks identity without thinking
12. The truth of thinking is proven in practice, not theory
13. Disputes over thinking's reality, isolated from practice, are scholastic
Materialism, in Marxist-Leninist philosophy, acknowledges that human consciousness, social existence, and history are significantly influenced by material conditions, such as economic systems, technological advancements, and environmental factors. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of thought and reality, recognizing that ideas and social structures arise from and interact with material circumstances. Materialism rejects idealism, which posits that ideas or spirits alone shape reality, and instead supports critical inquiry and democratic participation. By prioritizing the external world over abstract thought, materialism unites theory and practice, validating truth through practical application rather than theoretical abstraction. This approach provides a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between material conditions and human thought, guiding Marxist-Leninists toward emancipatory action and critical inquiry. Materialism ultimately seeks to liberate humanity from oppressive ideologies and systems by understanding the material roots of oppression and transforming reality through practical action.
*3. Dialectical Principles*
1. Dialectics is a universal process of laws, encompassing knowledge and evolution.
2. Modern materialism is dialectic.
3. Contradictions develop through leaps.
4 Cognition moves in cycles from particular to general and back.
5. Knowledge grows from individual to general things.
6. Struggle of opposites is absolute
7. Internal contradictions are the fundamental cause of development
8. Contradiction exists in all things' development
9. Each form of motion and society has its own particular contradiction and essence
10. Negation of the negation is a key dialectical principle
11. Negation of the negation describes historical processes
12. Contradiction is fundamental to motion, change, and life
13. Laws of motion and development govern reality
14. Dialectics is the science of general laws of motion and development
15. Revolutionized thought dissolves absolute truth
16. Hegel's dialectics reveals the transitory nature of everything
17. Hegel's system was limited by attempting to overcome all contradictions
18. Unity of Opposites: Understanding how contradictory forces interact.
19. Quantitative to Qualitative Change: Explaining how gradual changes lead to revolutionary transformations.
Marxist-Leninist dialectical principles recognize that contradictions are the engines of development, propelling growth through complex, nonlinear processes. These contradictions manifest as cycles of cognition, struggles between opposing forces, and transformative leaps. Each system possesses inherent, unique contradictions that shape its essence and evolution. The concept of negation of the negation reveals the dynamic, transitory nature of historical processes. Dialectics, as a comprehensive framework, challenges absolute truths and critiques Hegel's philosophical limitations. By acknowledging contradictions as intrinsic to motion, change, and life, dialectics illuminates the governing laws of reality and development, highlighting constant evolution, transformation, and the interplay between revolutionary thought and class struggle.
*4. Materialism and Consciousness*
1. Materialism results from existence, and social consciousness stems from social existence.
2. People are shaped by their conditions and production.
3. Humans are shaped by upbringing and environment.
4. The proletariat can only achieve trade union consciousness.
5. Character is shaped by heredity and environment.
6. Class-consciousness drives revolution
7. Alienation: Understanding how capitalism alienates people from their humanity.
8. False Consciousness: Recognizing how ideology masks true social relations.
Material conditions significantly influence human consciousness, social existence, and class identity, although their impact is multifaceted and context-dependent. People's thoughts, character, and actions are shaped by a complex interplay of environment, upbringing, production relations, and social interactions. The proletariat's consciousness initially reflects trade union interests, but through collective struggle and social change, it can evolve into revolutionary class-consciousness, transcending immediate economic concerns to encompass broader social and political transformation. This nuanced understanding acknowledges the dynamic relationship between material conditions and human agency, highlighting the crucial role of class-consciousness in driving revolutionary transformation while recognizing the complexity of individual and collective experiences.
*5. Critique of Metaphysics*
1. Dialectics proves nature's process is dialectical, not metaphysical.
2. Feuerbach's view lacks recognition of interconnectedness.
3. Dialectics and metaphysics create black/white thinking.
4. Marxist theory requires understanding the role of the state and dictatorship of the proletariat.
5. Materialist dialectics opposes metaphysical world outlook
6. Dialectical thinking replaces metaphysical thinking
7. Hegelian logic is flawed
8. Metaphysicians misunderstand dialectics
9. Hegel's ontological proof is flawed
The Marxist-Leninist critique of metaphysics challenges rigid, absolutist thinking, instead advocating for dialectical analysis that acknowledges complexity, interconnectedness, and dynamic change. This perspective recognizes the limitations of Feuerbach's and Hegel's ideologies, transcending their static, idealistic views. By prioritizing materialist dialectics, Marxist theory underscores the importance of understanding the state's role, proletariat dictatorship, and the dialectical relationship between historical development and social transformation. This critique not only opposes metaphysical ideologies but also seeks to overcome the dichotomy between abstract thought and concrete reality, replacing metaphysical abstractions with a nuanced, dialectical understanding of reality, history, and revolutionary transformation. Ultimately, this approach enables Marxist-Leninists to critically engage with idealistic and bourgeois ideologies, fostering a dynamic, materialist worldview that informs revolutionary practice.
*6. Human Nature and Society*
1. Marx argued that humans are products of nature
2. Society and culture influence individual behavior.
3. Equality for all eliminates superiority.
4. Women are equal to men, as in ancient cultures.
5. Ancient cultures demonstrated equality.
6. Humanity's needs come before individual interests.
7. Self-interest must consider humanity's well-being.
8. Society should benefit all.
9. Better conditions create better society.
10. Class struggle is fundamental to Marxist theory.
11. Class struggle is essential.
12. Domination of nature does not presuppose domination of man
13. True nature of war rooted in ruling classes' objective positions
14. Internationalism: Solidarity among nations and peoples.
15. Proletarian Internationalism: Unity among working-class people across nations.
From a Marxist-Leninist perspective, human nature is shaped by the interplay of natural and social conditions, rejecting inherent superiority or inequality. Society and culture dynamically influence individual behavior, and true equality can be achieved by balancing collective well-being with individual needs. Marxist-Leninists view humans as products of nature and society, emphasizing the complex relationship between equality, cooperation, and collective well-being in transcending individualism and class struggle. They argue that improved social conditions foster a more equitable society, and that class struggle is a crucial lens for understanding historical development and social transformation. Ultimately, prioritizing humanity's needs necessitates reconciling human development with environmental sustainability, and recognizing that domination of nature perpetuates social injustices.
*7. Philosophy as a Tool for Social Change*
1. Marx supported the working class and peasants.
2. Marxism combines philosophies, forming modern materialism and scientific socialism.
3. Communism requires a fundamental change in mindset.
4. Marxism represents 19th-century humanism.
5. True socialism seeks to end oppression and exploitation for all humanity.
6. Philosophy highlights individuals shaping history through materialism.
7. Materialism is global; humanity appreciates creations when barriers are removed.
8. Revolution transforms society as a whole.
9. Lenin's critique marked a turning point in Marxist theory and practice development.
10. Abstract notions of justice and democracy must be subordinated to practical needs of revolution.
11. Historical facts and course of struggle must be considered, not parliamentary struggles.
12. Revolutions arise from unrest, crisis, movements, and revolts.
13. Marxism will triumph through democratic masses and class demarcation.
14. Revolutions confirm the importance of independent democratic masses.
15. Importance of theory in the proletarian movement
16. Revolutionary patience is essential
17. Timing is crucial
18. Materialist dialectics guides revolutionary action
19. Materialist dialectics represents a great revolution in human knowledge
20. Philosophers should aim to change the world, not just interpret it
21. Theory and practice are interconnected
22. The educator themselves needs education
Philosophy, particularly Marxism, serves as a catalyst for social transformation, empowering the working class and peasants to challenge and redefine societal structures. By integrating materialism and scientific socialism, Marxist-Leninists advocate for humanity's liberation from systemic oppression and exploitation, acknowledging the complex interplay between economic, political, and cultural forces. This approach emphasizes the crucial role of revolutionary consciousness, materialist dialectics, and democratic mobilization in achieving a truly equitable socialist society. Rather than prioritizing abstract ideals of justice and democracy, Marxist-Leninists stress the importance of grounded, pragmatic action informed by critical theory and constant self-reflection. Embracing revolutionary patience, strategic timing, and mass education, they seek to actively transform reality, recognizing that meaningful change necessitates the convergence of theory, practice, and collective action.
*8. Dialectical Logic and Reasoning*
1. Recognizing natural laws and dialectics turns necessity into freedom.
2. Challenging existing order improves theory.
3. Dissatisfaction leads to inevitable circumstances.
4. Reasoning cannot be abstract.
5. Reason alone cannot establish a rational society.
6. Critical analysis of class relations and historical development is essential.
7. Marxist theory must be adjusted to fit new circumstances.
8. Materialist dialectics integrates analysis and synthesis
9. Materialist dialectics studies internal contradictions within objects
10. The law of contradiction is the essence of dialectics
11. Understanding contradiction requires exploring philosophical problems
12. Dialectics is necessary for understanding complex phenomena
13. Dialectical turns of speech include transformation of extremes
14. Negation involves determination and limitation
15. Unity of Opposites: Understanding how contradictory forces interact.
16. Quantitative to Qualitative Change: Explaining how gradual changes lead to revolutionary transformations.
Dialectical logic and reasoning reveal the intricate, reciprocal relationships between theory and practice, necessity and freedom, illustrating the dynamic interdependence of opposing forces. Recognizing natural laws and dialectics empowers individuals to transform circumstances by grasping the fluid interplay between objective conditions and subjective agency. Critical analysis of class relations, historical development, and contradictory social forces informs Marxist theory, which must continually adapt to emerging circumstances and context-specific complexities. Materialist dialectics integrates analytical and synthetic approaches, examining internal contradictions, the law of contradiction, and the transformative potential of negation. By embracing this dialectical methodology, Marxist-Leninists can thoughtfully navigate complex, nonlinear phenomena, challenge entrenched power structures, and strive for a rational, egalitarian society through a process of iterative, dissatisfaction-driven change and continuous self-reflection.
*9. Critical Thinking and Education*
1. Everyone's voice deserves to be heard.
2. All solutions should be considered.
3. Gradual, thoughtful change is necessary.
4. Education should prioritize humanism and critical thinking.
5. Schools should prepare students for social responsibility.
6. Thinkers often uphold ideas without considering material conditions.
7. Simplified answers are necessary for understanding and enacting.
8. Foster critical thinking.
9. Avoid dogmatism.
10. Emphasis on confidence, orientation, and understanding through theory
11. Critique of existing philosophy is necessary for progress
12. Abstraction limits philosophical understanding
13. Critical Pedagogy: Emphasizing education as a tool for social change.
14. Conscientization: Raising awareness of social conditions and contradictions.
15. Praxis: Integrating theory and practice in revolutionary action.
Dialectics, critical thinking, and education are integral to comprehending and transforming reality, necessitating an inclusive, nuanced approach that considers multiple perspectives and solutions. Dialectical principles prioritize empathetic understanding, acknowledging the value of diverse voices and experiences. Gradual, thoughtful change is facilitated through humanist education that emphasizes social responsibility, critical thinking, and contextual awareness, avoiding dogmatic simplifications and abstract universalisms. By cultivating critical thinking, confidence, and theoretical grounding, dialectical education empowers individuals to recognize and reconcile contradictions, driving progressive social change and revolutionary transformation. This approach recognizes that philosophical understanding must be grounded in material conditions, critiquing existing frameworks to reveal limitations and potentialities. By embracing complexity and contextuality, dialectical education fosters a dynamic, iterative process of learning, reflection, and collective growth.
*10. Philosophical Foundations*
1. Economic theory reveals workers' true value.
2. Labor theory of value builds on Adam Smith and David Ricardo.
3. Protection of humanity should be the primary goal.
4. Socialism aims to protect humanity from exploitation, oppression, and enslavement.
5. Humanity needs a communalist society.
6. Feuerbach recognizes human interdependence in communism.
7. Intelligence transcends state boundaries.
8. Marx's teachings were distorted by philosophical interpretations.
9. Re-establishing his ideas demonstrates misinterpretation.
10. Marxism is not a rigid dogma, but a dynamic guide to action.
11. Critical and revolutionary spirit in Marx's teachings
12. Materialist dialectics provides a comprehensive worldview
13. Materialist dialectics recognizes the dynamic nature of reality
14. Marx's concept of negation of the negation is logical
15. Cosmogony should be based on scientific principles
16 Laws of nature's inertness are not new discoveries
17 Critique of political economy requires scientific understanding
18. Economic science should reveal social abuses' necessary consequences
19. Motion cannot be reduced to mechanical force.
20. Historical analysis disproves Dühring's theory
21. Economic science is not a modern phenomenon
22. Historical context is crucial in understanding economic theories
23. Force can work with or against economic development
24. Commodity Fetishism: Understanding how capitalism distorts human relationships.
Philosophical foundations of Marxism-Leninism prioritize humanity's liberation from exploitation, oppression, and enslavement, advocating for socialism and communism as frameworks for emancipation. Building on Adam Smith and David Ricardo, the labor theory of value illuminates the exploitative nature of capitalist relations, revealing the disparity between workers' true value and their compensation. Marxism transcends rigid orthodoxy, serving as a dynamic, adaptive guide to action, grounded in materialist dialectics and acknowledging reality's complex, ever-changing dynamics. This approach critiques political economy through a scientific lens, exposing the consequences of social abuses and highlighting the dialectical interplay between economic development and historical context. Recognizing the dual potential of force – as both obstacle and catalyst – Marxist-Leninist thought emphasizes nuanced analysis and contextual understanding. Ultimately, this philosophy strives for a communalist society, prioritizing human interdependence, collective intelligence, and revolutionary spirit, while fostering a dynamic balance between individual agency and communal well-being.
To apply dialectics:
Observe issues and contradictions
Analyze relationships and causes
Formulate solutions
Implement and evaluate
Refine and repeat
This iterative process fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
Historical Materialism
Historical Materialism, the foundational theory of Marxist-Leninism, emphasizes that social change and historical development are driven by class struggle, economics, and material conditions. Human society progresses through generations, shaped by technological advancements, production modes, and class relations. From ancient communal equality to capitalist exploitation, historical development is marked by contradictions and conflicts. Imperialism, arising from capitalism's inherent contradictions, intensifies class struggle and global inequality. Through dialectical materialism and class conflict theory, Marxist-Leninist thought critiques idealist historiography, emphasizing the role of economic determinism and the inevitability of social revolution. By understanding these dynamics, individuals can contribute to historical progress and socialist transformation, striving for a classless, borderless society prioritizing human well-being.
*1. Understanding historical development*
1. Ancient native cultures demonstrated communal equality.
2. History progresses through generations.
3. History distorts to uphold past objectives.
4. History reflects class struggle and economics.
5. Historical conception of nature was limited.
6. Historical context shapes philosophical thought.
7. Historical understanding reveals interconnections between facts.
8. Historical development is shaped by class struggles and economic factors.
9. Historical context influences philosophical thought.
10. Historical development is marked by contradictions and conflicts.
Historical development, from a Marxist perspective, is driven by class struggle and economics, with societal evolution unfolding through successive generations. Ancient cultures demonstrated communal equality, but historical narratives are often distorted to serve past objectives. Philosophical thought is shaped by historical context, revealing interconnected facts. Rooted in dialectical materialism, class conflict theory, and historical determinism, Marxist theory emphasizes class struggles and economic factors as primary drivers of historical development, influencing the economic base and superstructure.
*2. Material conditions and social change*
1. Technology shapes human life through interaction with nature.
2. Production defines people, distinguishing them from animals.
3. Mode of production and exchange determines distribution.
4. Economic development determines economic situations.
5. Distribution reacts upon production and exchange.
6. Changes in production modes lead to social revolution.
7. Industrial Revolution split power between capitalists and workers.
8. Capitalism has spawned globally.
9. Rise of cartels increases anarchy inherent in capitalist production.
10. Slavery's abolition requires technological progress.
11. Political economy studies laws governing production, exchange, and distribution.
12. Changing circumstances and human activity are understood through revolutionary practice.
13. Revolutionary practice is key to understanding human activity.
14. Cosmogony requires understanding matter and motion.
15. Technology's impact on labor and exploitation.
16. Role of imperialism in shaping global economic systems.
Material conditions and social change are intricately linked, with technology and production modes shaping human life and society. The mode of production and exchange determines distribution, influencing economic development and situations. Changes in production modes lead to social revolution, exemplified by the Industrial Revolution, which created a power divide between capitalists and workers. Capitalism's global expansion and cartelization exacerbate inherent anarchic tendencies. Marxist theory emphasizes the role of technological progress in abolishing exploitative systems like slavery. Understanding these dynamics requires revolutionary practice, studying political economy, and recognizing the interplay between production, exchange, and distribution.
*3. Class formation, struggle and historical progress*
1. Class struggle arises from definite laws governing changes and conflicts.
2. National divisions stem from production and ownership.
3. Feudal property positioned peasants as the producing class.
4. Class struggle intensified in 19th century.
5. Social order changes with economic change.
6. Declaration of Rights of Man resulted from divide.
7. By 1851, workers' power was crushed.
8. Class conflicts root the state's existence.
9. Class struggles drive historical change.
10. Global protests against capitalism emerged with its rise.
11. Independent proletariat groups form globally.
12. Proletarian revolution as a global phenomenon.
13. Imperialism's contradictions.
14. Imperialism's three main contradictions.
15. Force is not the origin of class antagonisms.
16. Imperialism intensifies capitalism's contradictions.
17. Transitional period in history marked by parasitic capitalism.
18. Imperialism is moribund capitalism.
19. Imperialism characterized by parasitism and decay.
20. Intersectionality of class struggle with other forms of oppression.
21. Historical examples of successful proletariat revolutions.
Class formation, struggle, and historical progress are intertwined, driven by laws governing changes and conflicts. Class struggle arises from production and ownership, evolving from feudalism to capitalism. The 19th century saw intensified class struggle, culminating in workers' power being crushed by 1851. Class conflicts underpin the state's existence, driving historical change. Global protests against capitalism emerged with its rise, fueling independent proletariat groups and proletarian revolution worldwide. Imperialism, characterized by parasitism and decay, intensifies capitalism's contradictions, marked by exploitation, oppression, and uneven development.
*4. Critique of idealist historiography*
1. Knowledge is relative and limited by historical and social context.
2. Historical sciences do not have final, ultimate truths.
3. Eternal truths are challenged.
4. History distorts to uphold past objectives.
5. German history prioritizes national supremacy.
6. Feudalism's downfall required confronting religion.
7. Ancient Greek economic views are misunderstood.
8. Limitations of bourgeois historiography.
9. Importance of Marxist historiography in understanding class struggle.
Material conditions shape social change, with technology and production modes influencing human life. The mode of production and exchange determines distribution, driving economic development. Changes in production spark social revolution, as seen in the Industrial Revolution, which divided capitalists and workers. Capitalism's global expansion and cartelization intensify anarchic tendencies. Marxist theory highlights technological progress as key to abolishing exploitation, such as slavery.
*5. Historical materialism and dialectics*
1. The law of contradiction is the fundamental law of nature, society, and thought.
2. Social structure revolves around family, communal ownership, and private property dynamics.
3. Communism promotes collective ownership.
4. The state is a tool of class oppression.
5. Proletarian democracy is superior to bourgeois democracy.
6. The proletariat plays a crucial role in building socialist society.
7. Automation is inevitable and requires human adaptation.
8. Dialectical relationship between base and superstructure.
9. Role of contradictions in driving historical change.
Historical materialism and dialectics are foundational to Marxist-Leninist theory. The law of contradiction drives change in nature, society, and thought. Social structure evolves from communal ownership to private property, fueling class conflict. Communism seeks collective ownership, abolishing class oppression. The state serves as a tool of class oppression, while proletarian democracy surpasses bourgeois democracy. The proletariat plays a crucial role in building socialist society. Additionally, automation's inevitability requires human adaptation.
*6. Material Conditions and Social Development*
1. Evolution and development should prioritize human need.
2. Countries and societies are interdependent.
3. Globalism connects nations, with both positive and negative consequences.
4. Marxist theory must be applied in context, considering specific social/economic conditions.
5. Recognizing the depth of crisis and its connection to social/economic situation is vital.
6. Impact of globalization on local economies.
7. Relationship between economic development and environmental degradation.
Marxist-Leninist theory emphasizes prioritizing human need in evolution and development. Global interdependence connects nations, with globalism yielding both positive and negative consequences. Successful Marxist application requires contextual consideration of specific social and economic conditions. Recognizing the depth of crisis and its link to social and economic situations is crucial.
*7. Economic Determinism*
1. Economic tendencies shape social relations.
2. Changes in production modes lead to social revolution.
3. Current economic science focuses on capitalist mode of production.
4. Imperialism grows out of the contradictions of capitalism itself.
5. Imperialism fueled by capitalist monopoly.
6. Finance capital created epoch of monopolies.
7. Finance capital spread globally.
8. Finance capital dominated international relations.
9. Influence of economic determinism on political systems.
10. Role of economic determinism in shaping international relations.
Economic Determinism, a cornerstone of Marxist-Leninist theory, asserts that economic forces shape social relations and drive historical change. Changes in production modes, such as the transition from feudalism to capitalism, inevitably lead to social revolution. The current economic science focuses on the capitalist mode of production, which inherently breeds imperialism through monopoly and finance capital. As capitalism's contradictions intensify, imperialism emerges, fueled by the quest for profit and dominance. The epoch of monopolies, characterized by finance capital, has spread globally, dominating international relations and exacerbating class struggle.
*8. Historical Progress and Social Change*
1. History progresses through generations.
2. Global protests against capitalism emerged with its rise.
3. Imperialism confirmed as eve of social revolution.
4. Imperialism divides world among handful of states.
5. European colonial powers divided world.
6. Territorial division of world among biggest powers complete.
7. Division of profits benefits countries with slower growth.
8. Division of world sparked future conflicts.
9. Importance of international solidarity in achieving social change.
10. Role of revolutionary violence in achieving historical progress.
Historical progress and social change advances history through generations, with global protests against capitalism emerging alongside its rise. Imperialism marks the eve of social revolution, characterized by the division of the world among a handful of powerful states. European colonial powers initially carved up the globe, with the territorial division complete among the biggest powers. However, this uneven distribution of wealth benefits countries with slower growth, sowing seeds for future conflicts. Imperialism's inherent contradictions intensify class struggle, foreshadowing revolutionary change.
*9. Role of Individuals in History*
1. Social relations shape human essence and reality.
2. Global unity is essential for human well-being.
3. No borders, countries, or foreigners; only humans.
4. Base tactics on sober appraisal of class forces.
5. Consider alignment of all class forces.
6. Prepare for rapid changes.
7. The Basel Manifesto guides socialist action.
8. Automation should reduce work hours.
9. Importance of individual agency in shaping historical outcomes.
10. Relationship between individual and collective action in achieving social change.
Social relations shape human essence and reality. Individuals' actions should prioritize global unity, transcending borders and nationalities, to achieve human well-being. Effective activism requires a sober appraisal of class forces and alliances, as well as preparation for rapid changes. The Basel Manifesto guides socialist action, emphasizing international solidarity and class struggle. Furthermore, Marxist-Leninists advocate for harnessing automation to reduce work hours, improving living standards. By understanding these dynamics, individuals can contribute to historical progress and socialist transformation, ultimately creating a borderless, classless society where human well-being is paramount.
Class Struggle and Capitalism
Class struggle, driven by inherent contradictions between economic systems and social classes, fuels historical development and social change. This complex relationship encompasses exploitation, alienation, false consciousness, and class divisions, perpetuating social inequality. Marxist-Leninist theory examines the dynamics of class structure, conflict, revolution, ideology, state power, and economic conditions, illuminating the mechanisms of capitalist dominance and the imperative of proletarian revolution. Through understanding these principles, we can analyze the antagonistic relationship between the proletariat and bourgeoisie, the exploitation of labor, and the necessity of socialist transformation. Ultimately, this framework provides a comprehensive foundation for grasping the struggle for communist liberation.
*1. Class Structure and Exploitation*
1. In capitalist society, principal contradiction is between proletariat and bourgeoisie.
2. Social opposition leads to struggles between thriving and challenged groups.
3. Lower middle class and other groups fight extinction, leading to struggles.
4. Capitalism inherently exploitative.
5. Capitalism requires permanent wage workers.
6. Capitalism exploits workers.
7. Wage slavery exists due to industry's control over workers' value.
8. Capitalist production creates antagonism and antagonisms between rich and poor.
9. Bourgeois relations perpetuate inequality.
10. Proletariat exhausting peasantry's revolutionary energy.
11. Capitalism amplifies and exacerbifies human struggle and suffering.
12. Economic causes and transformations lead to class emergence.
13. Economic factors influence class emergence and conflict.
14. Materialist doctrine often divides society into superior and inferior parts.
15. Class supremacy is maintained through political power.
16. Separation of property from labor results from economic causes.
17. Relationships based on domination emerged from community growth.
18. Slavery arose from incorporating strangers as labor forces.
19. Wage bondage is not a transformed heritage of slavery.
20. Capital emerges from money and forms a historical phase.
21. Slavery enabled production increase and development.
22. Surplus value is extracted by capitalists from laborers.
23. National production is a variable magnitude, not fixed.
24. Private property dehumanizes individuals.
25. Efficient production increases poverty.
26. Poverty conditions worsened.
27. The role of imperialism in perpetuating global exploitation.
28. Intersectionality of class struggle with other forms of oppression.
In capitalist societies, the fundamental contradiction between the proletariat (working class) and bourgeoisie (capitalist class) drives social struggle. Capitalism's inherent exploitative nature creates antagonism between the rich and poor, perpetuating inequality through wage slavery and surplus value extraction. The bourgeoisie maintains class supremacy via political power, while the proletariat and other oppressed groups, like the lower middle class and peasantry, fight against extinction. Capitalism amplifies human struggle, dehumanizes individuals through private property, and worsens poverty despite increased production. Class emergence and conflict are shaped by economic causes and transformations. To achieve liberation, the proletariat must unite against capitalist exploitation, recognizing the need to abolish private property and establish socialist relations.
*2. Capitalism and Exploitation*
1. Capitalist societies divide into rich and workers, with workers as revolutionary force.
2. Modern industry advancement diminishes other classes.
3. Business will resist surrendering control to the public.
4. Modern governments prioritize business interests over people's needs.
5. Free market competition causes cycles of recession and depression.
6. Government protects national industry.
7. Large industry establishes hierarchies.
8. Rich use influence to maintain control in democracies.
9. Capitalism's inherent tendency towards monopoly and oligopoly.
10. The impact of neoliberalism on exacerbating exploitation.
Capitalism inherently divides society into two antagonistic classes: the bourgeoisie (rich) and proletariat (workers). As modern industry advances, intermediate classes diminish, solidifying the proletariat as the revolutionary force. However, capitalists fiercely resist surrendering control to the people, leveraging government protection for their interests. So-called "free markets" perpetuate cycles of recession and depression, while governments prioritize national industry over people's needs. Large industries establish oppressive hierarchies, and the wealthy wield influence to maintain control even in democratic systems. This exploitative system underscores the necessity for proletarian revolution to overthrow capitalist dominance and establish socialist relations, prioritizing people's needs over profit.
*3. Class Conflict and Revolution*
1. Every class conflict has political implications.
2. Class conflicts drive social change and intensify without addressing economic conditions.
3. Class struggle is the engine of history.
4. Proletariat rises and organizes against class struggle.
5. Workers should combine and struggle for a rise in wages.
6. Trades unions should strive for working class emancipation.
7. Wage system should be abolished.
8. Workers' organized forces can achieve emancipation.
9. Colonization and monopolies spark revolutions.
10. Proletariat-bourgeoisie struggle intensifies.
11. New institutions are needed to defeat old ruling classes.
12. Overthrow bourgeois supremacy and conquer political power.
13. Raise the proletariat to the position of ruling class.
14. Dictatorship of the proletariat is necessary for the transition to socialism.
15. Revolution requires the use of force to suppress counter-revolution.
16. Dictatorship of the proletariat
17. Proletariat seizing power in favorable situations
18. Bourgeois-democratic revolution transitioning to proletarian revolution
19. Disfranchisement of bourgeoisie is necessary for dictatorship of proletariat.
20. Revolutions and revolutionary wars are inevitable in class society
21. Proletariat exhausting peasantry's revolutionary energy
22. Irreconcilability between opportunism and working-class movement
23. Global split of working-class movement evident
24. The importance of international solidarity in proletarian revolutions.
25. Strategies for overcoming counter-revolutionary forces.
Class conflict is the driving force of history, intensifying unless economic conditions are addressed. The proletariat, organized and risen against exploitation, must combine to struggle for better wages and ultimately abolish the wage system. Trades unions should strive for working-class emancipation. The proletariat-bourgeoisie struggle culminates in revolution, necessitating the overthrow of bourgeois supremacy, conquest of political power, and establishment of the dictatorship of the proletariat. This transitional phase requires force to suppress counter-revolution and disfranchisement of the bourgeoisie. Revolutions and revolutionary wars are inevitable in class society. The proletariat must harness peasantry's revolutionary energy, reject opportunism, and unite globally to achieve socialist transformation.
*4. Bourgeoisie and Proletariat Relations*
1. Ruling class controls materials and ideas.
2. Classes form to combat common adversaries.
3. Civil law upholds private property sanctity.
4. Bourgeoisie used religion to control workers.
5. Bourgeoisie used Salvation Army to control workers.
6. Officials become privileged.
7. The role of ideology in maintaining bourgeois control.
8. Mechanisms of false consciousness and alienation.
The bourgeoisie maintains power by controlling the means of production, ideas, and institutions. Classes form to combat common adversaries, perpetuating the exploitative system. Civil law safeguards private property, upholding bourgeois interests. The ruling class employs ideological tools like religion and organizations (e.g., Salvation Army) to manipulate and pacify workers. This perpetuates false consciousness, masking exploitation. Meanwhile, officials become privileged accomplices, reinforcing bourgeois dominance. Recognizing these mechanisms is crucial for the proletariat to develop class consciousness, unite, and overthrow capitalist oppression.
*5. Class Struggle and Historical Development*
1. Class struggle drives development.
2. Class struggle is fundamental to Marxist theory.
3. Historical driving forces result from class struggles.
4. Class struggles drive historical change.
5. Class distinctions breed division.
6. World history teaches class struggle doctrine.
7. Marxism guides laws governing social chaos.
8. Modern socialism stems from capitalist-worker hostilities.
9. Imperialism affects principal contradiction in semi-colonial countries.
10. Economic conditions influence warfare.
11. Manufacturers operate without guilds.
12. Working day limitation requires legislative interference.
13. Legislative interference necessary for workers' rights.
14. Historical examples of successful socialist revolutions.
15. The impact of technological advancements on class struggle.
Class struggle is the driving force behind historical development, fundamental to Marxist theory. Historical change results from class conflicts, fueled by economic conditions and exploitation. Class distinctions breed division, perpetuating social chaos. Marxism provides the framework to understand these dynamics. World history demonstrates the universality of class struggle, from capitalist-worker hostilities to imperialism's impact on semi-colonial countries. Economic conditions shape warfare, and workers' rights require legislative interference. The abolition of guilds and limitations on working days illustrate capitalism's evolution. Recognizing class struggle's role in shaping history is essential for understanding the inevitability of socialist revolution.
*6. Understanding Class Relationships*
1. Understanding class antagonisms is crucial for social analysis
2. Human activity should be conceived as objective activity
3. City laborers lack organization and power.
4. Workers formed the Working Man's Party (Chartists).
5. Workers formed unions.
6. Unions temporarily united.
7. The role of education in developing class consciousness.
8. Strategies for building proletarian unity.
Understanding class antagonisms is vital for social analysis, revealing the inherent contradictions between exploiters and exploited. Human activity must be viewed as objective, driven by material conditions. Historically, city laborers, initially disorganized and powerless, have formed collective movements, such as the Working Man's Party (Chartists) and unions, to challenge capitalist dominance. Although unions achieved temporary unity, their limitations underscore the need for a revolutionary proletarian movement to overcome bourgeois control and establish socialist relations.
*7. Critique of Bourgeois Ideology, Alienation and False Consciousness*
1. Morality is influenced by historical and social context.
2. State enforces class supremacy.
3. The primary goal of socialists is to achieve revolution.
4. Reformism is a bourgeois strategy to deceive/weaken the working class.
5. Reforms under capitalism are temporary/limited.
6. Capitalist power has limits that should be examined.
7. People are deceived by ruling classes.
8. "Social peace" is a harmful illusion.
9. The relationship between ideology and power.
10. Critique of liberal democracy as a tool of bourgeois control.
Bourgeois ideology masks exploitation through false consciousness, deceiving the working class into accepting their oppression. Morality is shaped by historical and social contexts, serving ruling-class interests. The state enforces class supremacy, maintaining capitalist dominance. Socialists must reject reformism, which perpetuates illusions of gradual change, and instead strive for revolution. Reforms under capitalism are temporary and limited, distracting from the fundamental need for systemic overthrow. Recognizing the limits of capitalist power and the harmful illusion of "social peace" is crucial for developing class consciousness and achieving revolutionary change.
*8. Proletarian Revolution and Socialism*
1. Labor will triumph over capital.
2. Poverty would be abolished under communism.
3. Communism eliminates landlords, corporations, and wage slavery, but allows personal property.
4. The immediate aim of Communists is to form the proletariat into a class.
5. Win the battle of democracy.
6. Democratic socialists push insignificant reforms and surrender to capitalism.
7. The state maintains power of the ruling class over the working class.
8. The state is a tool for the wealthy to control society.
9. Force, taxes, and loans sustain the state.
10. The state undergoes transformation in communist society.
11. Working class must be educated to exercise dictatorship.
12. Revolution requires change in working-class views.
13. Masses require practical action.
14. Refusing participation in reactionary unions harms revolution.
15. Antagonism arises when contradictions develop to a certain stage.
16. Sensation and pleasure/pain concepts are complex.
17. The role of socialist internationalism in achieving global communism.
18. Strategies for transitioning from socialism to communism.
The ultimate goal of Communists is the triumph of labor over capital, abolishing poverty and establishing a classless society. Communism eliminates exploitation by landlords, corporations, and wage slavery, while allowing personal property. The immediate aim is to unite the proletariat as a revolutionary force, winning the battle of democracy and overcoming bourgeois control. Rejecting insignificant reforms and democratic socialism's capitulation to capitalism, Communists recognize the state as a tool for ruling-class domination, sustained by force, taxes, and loans. In a communist society, the state undergoes transformation, requiring the working class to be educated for dictatorship. Revolution demands a transformation in working-class views, practical action from the masses, and rejection of reactionary unions.
Value, Labor, and Capital
Capitalism is built on exploitation, masking social relationships as market transactions. The Labor Theory of Value reveals that value stems from socially necessary labor time. Workers create surplus value, which capitalists exploit for profit. This inherent exploitation perpetuates inequality, concentrating wealth and power in the hands of monopolists.
*1. Labor Theory of Value*
1. Products satisfying needs are created through labor.
2. Labor is a commodity sold by workers.
3. Laboring power value is determined by labor necessary.
4. Abstract labor represents total goods produced.
5. Value is based on labor input.
6. Marx's theory states value is determined by embodied labor.
7. Labor-time is equal in value.
8. The value of commodities is determined by social labor required.
9. Labor value is determined by quantity of labor necessary.
10. Value of commodities is determined socially.
11. The value of commodities is determined by social labor required.
12. Labor value is determined by quantity of labor necessary.
13. Value of commodity determined by labor added minus raw materials.
14. Remainder of value resolves into labor added.
15. Laboring power value is determined by labor necessary.
16. Changes in productive powers of labor affect labor value.
17. Market prices oscillate around natural price or value.
18. Labor is the source of surplus value.
19. Value is a social construct arising from labor.
20. Market prices oscillate around natural price or value.
21. Labor-time is equal in value.
22. Distinction between use value and exchange value.
23. Impact of technological advancements on labor value.
24. Relationship between labor value and commodity prices.
The Labor Theory of Value, a cornerstone of Marxist economics, posits that value is determined by the socially necessary labor time required to produce commodities. Labor power, a commodity sold by workers, derives its value from the labor necessary for its reproduction. The value of commodities is rooted in embodied labor, not market fluctuations. Marx's theory reveals that labor is the source of surplus value, which capitalists exploit for profit. By recognizing that value is based on labor input and that labor power is exploited, the Labor Theory of Value exposes capitalism's inherent exploitation, illuminating the class struggle between workers and capitalists.
*2. Exploitation and Surplus Value*
1. Workers create surplus value.
2. Collective labor is exploited.
3. Surplus value creates capital, crushing workers.
4. Surplus value is produced and decomposed into rent, interest, and profit.
5. Surplus value differs from profit.
6. Capitalist profit derives from labor exploitation.
7. Aggregate value is limited by total value divisible among wages, profits, and rent.
8. Rate of profit is measured by value of capital advanced in wages.
9. Changes in productive powers of labor affect labor value.
10. Productivity of labor affects labor value.
11. Value itself is not altered by variable proportions.
12. Law of value perpetuates capitalist conditions.
13. Capitalist appropriation contradicts socialized production.
14. Profits cannot be explained by selling above value.
15. Not all work is equally important.
16. Workers' value should not be tied to fluctuating market values.
17. Exploitation and oppression through unemployment should be eliminated.
18. Capitalist countries aren't democratic.
19. Surplus value/profits lead to capitalism's downfall.
20. Communism seeks to end human capital.
21. People are not wage slaves under communism.
22. Aggregate value is limited by total value divisible among wages, profits, and rent.
23. Rate of profit is measured by value of capital advanced in wages.
24. Surplus value is produced and decomposed into rent, interest, and profit.
25. Capitalist system perpetuates exploitation.
26. The role of imperialism in exploiting global labor.
27. Surplus value extraction through financialization.
28. Impact of exploitation on working-class living standards.
Under capitalism, workers create surplus value through collective labor, which is exploited by capitalists, generating profits. Surplus value is decomposed into rent, interest, and profit, perpetuating capitalist dominance. The rate of profit depends on wages and capital investment. Capitalist appropriation contradicts socialized production, leading to contradictions and eventual downfall. Communism seeks to eliminate exploitation, unemployment, and human capital, replacing wage slavery with equitable distribution. By understanding exploitation and surplus value, Marxist-Leninists recognize the inherent injustices of capitalism and the necessity of communist revolution to establish equitable social relations.
*3. Critique of Capitalist Economics*
1. Capitalism leads to monopolies.
2. Production becomes social, controlled by few capitalists.
3. Production becomes social, but appropriation remains private.
4. Capitalism treats socialized production/appropriation as incompatible.
5. The current system enables exploitation, oppression, and human rights violations.
6. Mode of expression can conceal labor exploitation.
7. Capitalism requires human suffering to survive.
8. Wealth is not economic power over men and things.
9. Economic outcomes depend on specific circumstances.
10. Simplistic arguments about wages and prices are flawed.
11. Replacement of the corrupt system is essential.
12. Mode of expression can conceal labor exploitation.
13. Capitalism's inherent tendency towards crisis and instability.
14. The role of state intervention in maintaining capitalist dominance.
15. Critique of neoliberal economic policies.
Capitalism inherently breeds monopolies, concentrating power in the hands of a few capitalists who exploit and oppress the masses. As production becomes increasingly socialized, appropriation remains private, perpetuating contradictions. This corrupt system thrives on human suffering, treating socialized production and private appropriation as incompatible. Marxist-Leninists recognize that capitalist economics masks labor exploitation through misleading modes of expression and oversimplified wage and price theories. The system's survival depends on maintaining inequality and exploitation, highlighting the necessity for revolutionary replacement with a socialist alternative that prioritizes collective ownership and equitable distribution.
*4. Wage Labor and Commodity Fetishism*
1. Labor is a commodity sold by workers.
2. Workers sell laboring power, not labor.
3. Wages cover laborers' cost of living.
4. Actual wages depend on supply and demand.
5. Negotiations determine wages and hours.
6. Wage determination is crucial.
7. Standard of life affects labor value.
8. Capitalists are supposed to be middlemen, brokers who sell product while the labor produces, to make life easier for the labor.
9. While a broker between the labor and the buyer is helpful, it's not always needed.
10. Capitalists have always abused their brokering position, exploiting the system.
11. Honest brokers can add value in efficient transactions, but capitalists exploit their position, prioritizing profits over the community's interests.
12. Real wages can be affected by changes in production and circulation.
13. The constancy of wages principle is flawed.
14. A rise in wages does not necessarily lead to economic ruin.
15. Wages and profits change inversely.
16. General rise in wages results in fall of general rate of profit.
17. Capitalist production tends to sink average standard of wages.
18. Production and ownership define people.
19. Production becomes detached from individuals.
20. Impact of wage labor on worker alienation.
21. Commodity fetishism's role in masking exploitation.
22. Historical development of wage labor and its implications.
21. Commodity fetishism's role in masking exploitation.
22. Historical development of wage labor and its implications.
Under capitalism, labor is commodified, with workers selling their labor power. Wages, determined by supply and demand, cover laborers' cost of living. Capitalists, posing as necessary middlemen, exploit workers, prioritizing profits over community interests. This exploitation is inherent, as wages and profits inversely relate, and rising wages lower the profit rate. Capitalist production suppresses average wages, alienating workers from their labor and defining them by production and ownership. The capitalist system masks exploitation through commodity fetishism, where social relationships appear as market transactions.
*5. Capital Accumulation and Accumulation by Dispossession*
1. Global capitalist system marked by concentration of production.
2. Industrialization kills individual laborers.
3. Concentration of production and capital leads to monopoly.
4. Big industry sets stage for abolishing private property.
5. Concentration of capital accelerates.
6. Economic power concentrated in few monopolists.
7. Centralization of capital and revenues enables control.
8. Finance capital transforms scattered capitalists into single collective.
9. Economic crises accelerate concentration.
10. Crises increase concentration and monopoly.
11. Capitalist exploitation and oppression through unemployment must be eliminated.
12. The relationship between capital accumulation and environmental degradation.
13. Accumulation by dispossession in the Global South.
14. Role of financial institutions in facilitating accumulation.
Capitalism's inherent drive for accumulation concentrates production, leading to monopoly and centralized control. Industrialization destroys small-scale labor, abolishing private property's relevance. Finance capital unites scattered capitalists, intensifying exploitation. Economic crises accelerate concentration, benefiting monopolists. This cycle perpetuates unemployment, oppression, and dispossession. Marxist-Leninists advocate for eliminating capitalist exploitation, recognizing that accumulation by dispossession:
*6. Socialist Alternatives to Capitalist Economics*
1. Communism seeks to end human capital.
2. People are not wage slaves under communism.
3. Centralize instruments of production in the hands of the State (proletariat).
4. Increase total productive forces rapidly and wrest capital from the bourgeoisie.
5. Cooperation and procreation are vital production methods.
6. Technology and resources are harnessed for all.
*7. Distribution of Wealth and Income under Capitalism*
1. Labor cannot have value.
2. Marx's theory of value regulates distribution by production interests.
3. Understanding monopolies requires consideration of banking role.
4. Monopolies, facilitated by banking institutions, concentrate wealth and exacerbate inequality.
5. Labor occasionally overvalues itself, prioritizing self-interest over community's best interests.
6. Replacing surplus-appropriation system.
7. Cooperative ownership and decision-making models.
8. Socialist planning and resource allocation.
9. Role of socialist internationalism in achieving global economic equality.
10. Wealth concentration and income inequality.
11. Impact of taxation policies on wealth distribution.
12. Alternative distribution models in socialist systems.
Under capitalism, labor has no inherent value. Marx's theory of value dictates distribution based on production interests, where surplus value is extracted from labor. Monopolies, facilitated by banking institutions, concentrate wealth and exacerbate inequality. However, labor itself can also perpetuate inequality if it prioritizes self-interest over community needs. To achieve equitable distribution, the surplus-appropriation system must be replaced, ensuring workers or the community control the means of production, preventing the emergence of new exploitative forces.
Critique of Idealism, Social-Darwinism and Capitalism
This section critiques idealist philosophy, social-Darwinism, and capitalism. It exposes the flaws of idealism, tied to religion, and highlights materialism's superiority. Social-Darwinism's harmful virtues and capitalism's inherent contradictions, such as exploitation, private ownership, and wage slavery, are examined. The critique emphasizes the necessity of a revolutionary, class-based approach to challenge bourgeois dominance and establish a socialist society.
*1. Critique of Idealist Philosophy*
1. Idealism is linked to religion, while materialism seeks freedom through understanding necessity.
2. German philosophy critiques religion, emphasizing ideas over materialism.
3. Thinkers often uphold ideas without considering material conditions.
4. Idealism neglects materialist conception.
5. Dogmatic thinking is flawed.
6. Dühring's methodology is flawed.
7. Dühring's critique of Marx is based on misinterpretations.
8. Dühring's views on mathematics were contradictory.
9. Infinity concepts lead to contradictions and absurdities.
10. Views on morality were meager and banal.
11. Idealism develops the active side abstractly.
12. Feuerbach recognizes human interdependence in communism.
13. Traditional idealist thinking bound Feuerbach in social domain.
14. Feuerbach fixed the religious sentiment as an isolated entity.
15. The "religious sentiment" is a social product.
16. Philosophy of religion and ethics reveals idealism.
17. Materialist dialectics opposes metaphysical world outlook.
18. Idealism neglects historical context and material conditions.
19. Idealist thinking perpetuates abstract, unattainable goals.
20. Materialism provides a concrete understanding of reality.
The critique of idealist philosophy exposes its inherent flaws and limitations. Idealism, rooted in religion, neglects material conditions and prioritizes abstract ideas, leading to dogmatic thinking, contradictions, and absurdities. Thinkers like Dühring exemplify these flaws, misinterpreting Marx and demonstrating contradictory views. In contrast, materialist dialectics offers a nuanced understanding of reality, recognizing the social origins of religious sentiment and morality. Feuerbach's communism acknowledges human interdependence but remains bound by idealist thinking. This critique underscores the importance of materialism in understanding necessity and achieving freedom, emphasizing the superiority of dialectical materialism over idealist philosophy.
*2. Social-Darwinism and Its Implications*
1. Capitalist and Social-Darwinist virtues of pride, wrath, lust, envy, gluttony, greed or avarice, superority, and sloth are actually vices of humanity, hindering unity and mutual support.
2. Personal ideologies like social Darwinism challenge collective well-being.
3. Social-Darwinism justifies inequality and oppression.
4. Its emphasis on competition undermines collective progress.
5. Socialist values prioritize cooperation and mutual support, Social-Darwinism prioritizes survival of the fittest, the backbone of all right-wing ideologies.
Social-Darwinism, rooted in capitalist ideology, promotes harmful virtues like greed, pride, and superiority, which undermine unity and mutual support. These so-called virtues are, in reality, vices that perpetuate exploitation and conflict. By elevating individual interests over collective well-being, social Darwinism sabotages the advancement of humanity, revealing its inherent incompatibility with socialist values. From a Marxist-Leninist perspective, recognizing and rejecting social Darwinism is crucial for building a classless, egalitarian society where collective interests and mutual support prevail.
*3. Capitalism's Inherent Contradictions*
1. Capitalism divides rich and poor, leading to unemployment.
2. Unregulated markets harm workers.
3. Private ownership can lead to monopolies and exploitation.
4. Capitalism keeps people on the edge of poverty.
5. Private property perpetuates poverty.
6. Capitalism amplifies and exacerbifies human struggle and suffering.
7. Modern governments prioritize business interests over people's needs.
8. Wage slavery exists due to industry's control over workers' value.
9. Free market competition causes cycles of recession and depression.
10. Capitalism leads to monopolies.
11. Production becomes social, controlled by few capitalists.
12. Collective labor is exploited.
13. Labor is a commodity sold by workers.
14. Wages cover laborers' cost of living.
15. Surplus value creates capital, crushing workers.
16. Herr Dühring's approach neglects historical context.
17. Dühring's theory prioritizes political relationships over economic dependence.
18. Dühring fails to explain value determination.
19. Vulgar economics underlies Dühring's socialism.
20. Dühring's explanation of capitalist exploitation is flawed.
21. Dühring's theory of value resolves into wage determination.
22. Transactions between big firms often involved corruption.
23. Capitalism's focus on profit overlooks environmental degradation.
24. Exploitation of resources perpetuates global inequality.
25. Socialist systems prioritize sustainable development.
Capitalism inherently perpetuates inequality, poverty, and exploitation through mechanisms like private ownership, monopolies, and wage slavery. Unregulated markets and free market competition exacerbate these issues, while governments prioritize business interests over people's needs. Critiques of economist Dühring highlight his flawed understanding of capitalism's contradictions. Recognizing these contradictions underscores the need for a socialist alternative prioritizing collective well-being and economic justice.
*4. Materialist Alternatives to Idealism*
1. Idealism is linked to religion, while materialism seeks freedom through understanding necessity.
2. German philosophy critiques religion, emphasizing ideas over materialism.
3. Thinkers often uphold ideas without considering material conditions.
4. Materialism acknowledges class struggle and dialectics.
5. Historical context informs materialist understanding.
6. Dialectical materialism guides revolutionary action.
Materialist alternatives to idealism emphasize understanding necessity for achieving freedom. Idealism, tied to religion, obscures reality, while materialism reveals the world's concrete, dialectical relationships. German philosophical critiques of religion prioritize ideas over material conditions, underscoring the need for dialectical materialism. This perspective rejects idealist abstractions, instead focusing on tangible, historical, and class-based realities. By recognizing materialism's superiority, Marxist-Leninists can develop revolutionary consciousness, challenge oppressive systems, and build a socialist future.
*5. Alienation and Reification*
1. Private property sets the stage for exploitation.
2. Labor becomes commodified.
3. Collective labor is exploited.
4. Workers receive wages, seemingly fair but actually masking exploitation.
5. Surplus value generated from exploitation creates capital, perpetuating worker oppression.
6. Worker oppression creates higher gains, leading to human rights violations.
7. Alienation results from capitalist exploitation.
8. Reification obscures human relationships and solidarity.
9. Socialist systems restore human dignity and connection.
Alienation and reification under capitalism result from private property and exploitation. Workers are dehumanized, selling their labor as a commodity, and collectively exploited, perpetuating poverty and distancing individuals from their true human potential. This alienation manifests in three primary ways: workers are disconnected from their labor, reducing creative potential to wage labor; from fellow workers, replacing solidarity with competition; and from humanity, prioritizing profit over well-being. Reification, or the commodification of relationships, reinforces alienation. Marxist-Leninists seek to abolish private property, reclaim labor's value, and establish a socialist system where workers control the means of production, restoring human dignity and solidarity.
*6. Alternative to Capitalism*
1. Marxism differs from utopian socialism.
2. True socialists are altruistic prioritizing people's needs over industry interests.
3. Communism advocates liberation through communal association, not national, ethnic, or religious autonomy.
4. Communism ensures collective ownership and control.
5. Socialist democracy guarantees worker participation.
6. Revolutionary transition requires mass mobilization.
A genuine alternative to capitalism requires a shift from utopian socialism to scientific socialism, prioritizing people's needs over industry interests. True socialists are driven by altruism, seeking collective well-being. Communism, the ultimate goal, achieves liberation through communal association, transcending national, ethnic, and religious divisions. This alternative rejects capitalist exploitation, promoting collective ownership, social equality, and workers' control over the means of production. Marxist-Leninists strive for a classless, stateless society where communal association and solidarity empower individuals to reach their full potential.
*7. Critique of Bourgeois Ideology*
1. Bourgeoisie Socialists prioritize a small group's interests.
2. Capitalists use indoctrination to justify inequality.
3. Bourgeoisie saw themselves as inferior to the upper class.
4. Politicians promoted individual bourgeoisie interests.
5. Religion manipulated workers to maintain inferiority.
6. Equality for women became prominent.
7. Private property, marriage, and religion hindered communism in Ireland.
8. Freedom of criticism is refused by liberalism.
9. Liberals drag socialist movements toward liberalism.
10. "Free people's state" is an opportunist concept.
11. Kautsky distorted Marxist theory by abandoning dialectics and class struggle.
12. Kautsky's understanding of dictatorship was incorrect.
13. Kautsky ignored the fundamental question of "democracy for which class?"
14. Kautsky failed to acknowledge bourgeois democracy's limitations.
15. Kautsky's views on dictatorship of the proletariat were un-Marxist.
16. Kautsky's views were rooted in petty-bourgeois and nationalist positions.
17. Kautsky falsified facts and served bourgeoisie interests.
18. Kautsky feared revolutionary masses and desired bourgeois power.
19. Liberalism is weak.
20. Anarchism has lost credibility.
21. Bourgeoisie uses radical language to maintain control.
22. Bourgeois ideology obscures class interests.
23. Liberalism and anarchism serve bourgeois goals.
24. Socialist revolution requires critical consciousness.
Bourgeois ideology serves to maintain capitalist exploitation. Bourgeois socialists prioritize elite interests, while capitalists use indoctrination to justify inequality. Religion, private property, and marriage perpetuate worker subjugation. Liberalism suppresses criticism, dragging socialist movements toward opportunism. Theorists like Kautsky distort Marxist principles, ignoring class struggle and dialectics. Their views serve bourgeoisie interests, fearing revolutionary change. Marxist-Leninists must recognize these ideological tactics to combat exploitation, promote proletarian unity, and achieve socialist revolution. This critique underscores the necessity of a revolutionary, class-based approach to challenge bourgeois dominance and establish a socialist society.
Transition to Socialism
The transition from capitalism to socialism requires a profound transformation of social and economic structures. Capitalism's inherent contradictions, fueled by imperialism and exploitation, create conditions for collective ownership and proletarian unity. Through revolutionary struggle, the working class must overcome bourgeois oppression, smash the capitalist state machine, and establish a dictatorship of the proletariat. This transitional phase prioritizes human well-being, socialized appropriation, justice, equality, and interdependence, ultimately paving the way for communism.
*1. Revolutionary Transition*
1. Conservatism seeks to preserve outdated social and economic structures.
2. Bourgeois democracy inherently serves the interests of the capitalist class, perpetuating exploitation and oppression.
3. Neoliberalism intensifies exploitation, masking it as "free market" freedom.
4. Marxism shows how capitalism creates, sustains, and necessitates wage slavery.
5. Class struggle educates and enlightens people.
6. Revisionism undermines revolutionary principles.
7. Bourgeois deviation prioritizes individual interests over collective needs.
8. Revolution requires uncompromising values.
9. Socialism fights all tyranny.
10. Marx argued for abolishing the state through radical revolution.
11. Smashing bourgeois state machine.
12. Temporary dictatorship of the proletariat follows revolution.
13. Dictatorship necessary for transition from capitalism to communism.
14. Revolution will ultimately lead to the abolition of the state.
15. Combine legal and illegal forms of struggle.
16. Revolution possible in one country with nationwide crises.
17. Role of revolutionary violence in overthrowing bourgeois rule.
18. Importance of ideological clarity among revolutionary forces.
19. Strategies for combating counter-revolutionary movements.
The revolutionary transition from capitalism to socialism requires a profound transformation of the existing social and economic structures. Conservatism, bourgeois democracy, and neoliberalism perpetuate exploitation and oppression, while Marxism exposes capitalism's inherent wage slavery. Class struggle educates and enlightens the proletariat, who must reject revisionism and bourgeois deviation. A successful revolution demands uncompromising values, smashing the bourgeois state machine, and establishing a temporary dictatorship of the proletariat. This transitional phase will ultimately abolish the state, achieving true socialism. Combining legal and illegal forms of struggle, revolution can occur in one country, even with nationwide crises. Through radical revolution, socialism fights all tyranny, prioritizing collective needs over individual interests, and paving the way for a communist future.
*2. Role of the Proletariat*
1. Proletariat exists globally.
2. Marxism predicts socialism emerging from proletariat struggle.
3. Socialism is necessary outcome of proletariat-bourgeoisie struggle.
4. Socialism concerns those struggling under capitalism.
5. Independent proletarian parties are necessary.
6. Both Communism and socialism aim to protect humanity from and put an end to exploitation, oppression, and enslavement.
7. Socialism seeks to free all humanity.
8. Humanity must unite for socialism.
9. Socialism seeks human unity.
10. Proletarian internationalism: unity across national borders.
11. Importance of proletarian culture and media.
12. Empowerment of marginalized groups within the proletariat.
The proletariat, existing globally, is the driving force behind the socialist revolution. Marxism predicts that socialism will emerge from the proletariat's struggle against the bourgeoisie. This struggle is necessary to end exploitation, oppression, and enslavement. Socialism concerns those exploited under capitalism, and independent proletarian parties are essential for organizing and leading the working class. Ultimately, socialism seeks to free all humanity, unite the global proletariat, and establish human unity. Through collective action and class struggle, the proletariat will overcome bourgeois oppression, achieving a socialist society that paves the way for communism.
*3. Socialist Mode of Production*
1. Bourgeois ideology legitimates and conceals destructive consequences of capitalism.
2. Socialism formed from reason, becoming utopian.
3. Revolutionize the old mode of production.
4. Transition to cooperative property is complex.
5. Socialist economy prioritizes human needs over profit.
6. Nationalization of land is necessary for socialism.
7. Collective farming is essential for socialist development.
8. Nationalization of land promotes collective farming.
9. Nationalization of land serves working class and poor peasants.
10. Nationalization of land leads to socialist economy and improved working-class lives.
11. Redistribution of land from rich peasants and landlords to poor peasants and working class is necessary.
12. Public ownership and unionization of industry can eliminate economic crises.
13. Central planning ensures efficient allocation of resources.
14. Automation should reduce work hours.
15. Cooperatives may help but don't eliminate poverty.
16. Socialist ownership forms (state, collective, cooperative).
17. Planning and market mechanisms in socialist economies.
18. Role of technology in socialist development.
The socialist mode of production revolutionizes the old capitalist system, prioritizing human needs over profit. Bourgeois ideology conceals capitalism's destructive consequences, but socialism, born from reason and utopian vision, transforms production. Nationalizing land and promoting collective farming serves the working class and poor peasants, while public ownership and unionization eliminate economic crises. Central planning ensures efficient resource allocation, and automation reduces work hours. Cooperatives offer partial solutions but cannot eradicate poverty alone. Through socialist transformation, the proletariat overcomes exploitation, achieving improved living standards and a socialist economy that paves the way for communism.
*4. Planning and Economic Coordination*
1. Central planning ensures efficient allocation of resources.
2. Centralized control ensures improvement and care for all.
3. Strengthening nationalized industry
4. Linking industry with peasant economy
5. Industries must advance or regress to maintain human growth.
6. Decentralized planning and participatory economics.
7. Socialist accounting and resource allocation.
8. Environmental sustainability in socialist planning.
In a socialist economy, central planning ensures the efficient allocation of resources, while centralized control guarantees improvement and care for all. Strengthening nationalized industry is crucial, as it forms the backbone of socialist production. Linking industry with the peasant economy promotes harmonious development and solidarity between workers and peasants. Furthermore, industries must continually advance to maintain human growth and progress. Through planned economic coordination, socialism overcomes the contradictions and inefficiencies of capitalism, prioritizing human needs and laying the foundation for communist development.
*5. Transition Challenges and Strategies*
1. Liberalism masks class exploitation with notions of equality and freedom.
2. Both liberalism and conservatism serve bourgeois interests.
3. Anarchy is incompatible with unity.
4. Anarchist rejection of centralized authority undermines collective action.
5. Anarchist emphasis on individual freedom ignores class struggle.
6. Individual contracting promotes wage slavery and should be abolished.
7. No oppression or exploitation is acceptable after the dictatorship of the proletariat class is abolished.
8. Managing contradictions between socialist and capitalist elements.
9. Balancing individual freedoms with collective interests.
10. Role of socialist ideology in guiding transition.
Effective transition to socialism requires overcoming liberalism, conservatism, and anarchism, which hinder collective action and mask class exploitation. Strategies include abolishing individual contracting, embracing centralized authority, and establishing the dictatorship of the proletariat. By addressing these challenges, socialism can eradicate oppression and exploitation, achieving true liberation and equality.
*6. Understanding the transition process*
1. Capitalism's imperialist stage leads to socialization of production.
2. Imperialism leads to comprehensive socialization of production.
3. Imperialism exploits Third World nations, perpetuating inequality.
4. Transition from capitalism to communism involves conflicts.
5. Transition from individual interests to collective well-being.
6. Historical examples of socialist transitions (e.g., Soviet Union, Cuba).
7. Lessons from failed or deviated socialist experiments.
8. Importance of flexibility in socialist strategy.
The transition from capitalism to communism is facilitated by imperialism's inherent contradictions. Capitalism's imperialist stage socializes production, creating conditions for collective ownership. However, imperialism also perpetuates inequality by exploiting Third World nations. The transition to communism requires overcoming these contradictions through conflict, ultimately replacing individual interests with collective well-being. As the working class unites to overthrow bourgeois rule, socialism emerges, paving the way for communist development.
*7. Importance of democratic participation*
1. All citizens have an obligation to participate and equal civil rights.
2. Engage critically with bourgeois-democratic parliaments and utilize parliamentary elections.
3. Workers' self-management and factory councils.
4. Role of socialist democracy in preventing bureaucratic degeneration.
5. Citizen engagement in socialist planning.
From a Marxist-Leninist perspective, democratic participation is crucial for advancing the proletariat's interests. Citizens have an obligation to participate and equal civil rights, ensuring their voices are heard. By engaging critically with bourgeois-democratic parliaments and leveraging parliamentary elections, communists expose the limitations of capitalist democracy and build support for socialist transformation. This strategic participation ultimately serves the revolutionary goal of overthrowing bourgeois rule and establishing a dictatorship of the proletariat.
*8. Critique of bureaucratic socialism*
1. Socialist institutions must prevent bureaucratic degeneration and petty-bourgeois influence.
2. Bureaucratic socialism fails by neglecting proletarian leadership and prioritizing state control over worker self-management.
3. Ideological manipulation and media distortion maintain ruling-class dominance.
4. Effects of bureaucratic degeneration on socialist ideology.
5. Comparison with democratic socialist alternatives.
Bureaucratic socialism deviates from true socialism by prioritizing state control over worker self-management and neglecting proletarian leadership. This degeneration allows petty-bourgeois influences to infiltrate socialist institutions. Furthermore, ruling-class dominance is maintained through ideological manipulation and media distortion, obscuring class struggle and perpetuating false consciousness. Genuine socialism requires vigilant protection against bureaucratic degeneration, empowering the proletariat to lead the revolutionary transition and establish a dictatorship of the proletariat.
*9. Building socialist institutions*
1. Socialism/communism rely on collective action, cooperation, and shared responsibilities.
2. Soviet power provided a blueprint for organizational framework.
3. Marxist education empowers workers to resist bourgeois reforms and individualistic ideologies.
4. Role of socialist education and cultural institutions.
5. Building proletarian-led community organizations.
Building socialist institutions requires collective action, cooperation, and shared responsibilities among the working class. The Soviet power structure, providing a blueprint for organizational framework, demonstrated the potential for proletarian self-management. Crucial to this endeavor is Marxist education, empowering workers to critically evaluate and resist bourgeois reforms and individualistic ideologies that undermine class unity. By combining collective action, socialist organization, and ideological clarity, communist institutions can flourish, paving the way for a dictatorship of the proletariat and the ultimate transition to communism.
*10. Consolidation and Development of Socialist Society*
1. Capitalist media promotes consumerism and false needs.
2. Media obscures class struggle, promoting bourgeois interests.
3. Ideological control maintains capitalist hegemony.
4. Reformists seek reform under the guise of progress to protect privileges.
5. Anarchist prioritization of autonomy endangers collective well-being.
6. Some cultures seek to divide humanity into groups, creating a hierarchical structure.
7. Independent proletarian parties are necessary.
8. Global unity is essential for human well-being, eliminating individual needs of nations and communities.
9. Humanity must unite as a communal entity.
10. All people can take care of each other.
11. Protection of humanity should be the primary goal.
12. Humanity needs a communalist society.
13. Countries and societies are interdependent.
14. Justice and equality must be universal.
15. Better conditions create better humans.
16. Socialism prioritizes human well-being and socialized appropriation.
17. Socialist foreign policy and international relations.
18. Role of socialist solidarity in global struggles.
19. Long-term goals and vision for communist society.
From a Marxist-Leninist perspective, consolidating and developing socialist society requires overcoming obstacles such as capitalist media distortion, reformist deception, and anarchist individualism. Unity among proletarian forces is crucial, facilitated by independent parties and global solidarity. Socialist society prioritizes human well-being, socialized appropriation, justice, equality, and interdependence, recognizing that humanity's flourishing depends on collective cooperation. By eliminating hierarchical divisions and nationalist interests, socialism creates better conditions for all, ultimately advancing toward communism.
Critique of Bourgeois Ideology
Marxist-Leninism critiques of bourgeois ideology, exposing its role in perpetuating capitalist exploitation and masking class struggle. It examines the limitations of liberal reforms, social democracy, and democratic socialism, and reveals how bourgeois ideology promotes individualism, manipulates public opinion, and maintains exploitation through media control, imperialism, and revisionism. By understanding these mechanisms and the principles of Marxist-Leninist theory, revolutionaries can develop a critical perspective on capitalist society and strive for a socialist future, ultimately achieving a classless, egalitarian society through collective ownership and proletarian power.
*1. Critique of Liberalism and Conservatism*
1. Liberal reforms like renting land from state are insufficient.
2. Liberals, democratic socialists, and social democrats are corrupt.
3. Liberal-labour policies replace democratic tasks with reformist goals.
4. Bourgeois limited parties to Liberal and Conservative.
5. Social democracy and democratic socialism are opportunistic.
6. Bernstein's reformist views are incompatible with Marxism.
1. Class supremacy is maintained through political power.
2. State serves class interests.
Liberalism and conservatism serve the interests of the ruling bourgeoisie, masking exploitation beneath a facade of democracy. Liberal reforms, such as state land rental, are insufficient and ultimately preserve capitalist dominance. Social democracy and democratic socialism are opportunistic, diverting attention from revolutionary change to reformist measures. Bernstein's revisionism undermines Marxist principles. The state, controlled by the bourgeoisie, maintains class supremacy through political power, perpetuating the oppressive status quo. True democracy and socialism cannot be achieved within the existing capitalist framework; a revolutionary overthrow of the bourgeoisie is necessary to establish a socialist state serving the interests of the working class.
*2. Understanding Bourgeois Ideology and the Limits of Bourgeois Democracy*
7. Bourgeois ideology promotes individualism over collective well-being.
8. Bourgeois democracy is restricted and serves the ruling class.
9. Rich use influence to maintain control in democracies.
10. "Free people's state" is an opportunist concept.
Bourgeois ideology disguises class exploitation by promoting individualism, obscuring collective interests and perpetuating the myth of social equality. Bourgeois democracy, touted as 'free' and 'people-driven,' is inherently restrictive, serving the ruling class's interests. The wealthy wield significant influence, maintaining control through subtle manipulations. Concepts like the 'free people's state' are opportunist, masking the inherent contradictions between capitalist interests and true democratic aspirations. In reality, bourgeois democracy provides a facade for capitalist dictatorship, suppressing proletarian voices and maintaining the status quo. A genuine democracy can only emerge from the dictatorship of the proletariat, where the working class holds power.
*3. Ideological Hegemony*
11. Capitalists use indoctrination to justify inequality.
12. Bourgeois ideology promotes individualism.
13. Religion obstructs social progress.
14. Traditional marriage perpetuates inequality.
3. Charlatanism undermines philosophical credibility.
Capitalist ruling classes maintain power through ideological hegemony, manipulating cultural and intellectual discourse to legitimize exploitation. Bourgeois ideology promotes individualism, obscuring collective interests and class struggle. Religion, traditional marriage, and other institutions perpetuate inequality, dividing the working class. Charlatanism disguises reactionary ideas as progressive, undermining philosophical credibility. To combat this, Marxists must expose and challenge dominant ideologies, promoting proletarian consciousness and socialist values. By recognizing and resisting ideological hegemony, the working class can unite and struggle towards a classless, egalitarian society.
*4. False Consciousness and Manipulation*
15. Personal ideologies like social Darwinism challenge collective well-being.
16. Pseudo-socialists side with industry, seeking elite privileges.
17. Reformist socialists maintain the status quo.
18. Democratic Socialists prioritize private property.
4. Self-praise and noisy claims do not guarantee substance.
Capitalism perpetuates false consciousness through ideologies that obscure class interests, dividing and misleading the working class. Examples include social Darwinism, which justifies exploitation, and pseudo-socialism, which serves industry elites. Reformist socialism and democratic socialism maintain the status quo, preserving private property and bourgeois power. These ideologies masquerade as progressive but ultimately uphold capitalist hegemony. Marxist-Leninists must critically evaluate and expose these manipulative ideologies, recognizing that rhetoric and claims of social change are meaningless without tangible action and commitment to proletarian revolution. True socialism requires the abolition of private property, collective ownership, and the dictatorship of the proletariat.
*5. Critique of Imperialist and Bureaucratic Ideology*
1. Colonization and monopolies spark revolutions.
2. Recognition of imperialism's contradictions.
3. Imperialism's inherent contradictions fuel resistance: exploiting colonies, monopolies, and uneven development create revolutionary conditions.
Imperialism, capitalism's highest stage, perpetuates exploitation and oppression through colonization, monopolies, and uneven development. This creates inherent contradictions, fueling resistance and revolutionary potential. Marxist-Leninists recognize these contradictions, exposing imperialism's false promises of prosperity and democracy. They unite working-class movements across borders against common oppressors, building socialist alternatives through collective ownership and proletarian power. By understanding imperialism's dynamics, Marxist-Leninists can effectively challenge bureaucratic ideologies, foster proletarian internationalism, and advance the revolutionary struggle for a classless, socialist society.
*6. Capitalist Ideology and the Media*
1. Bourgeois ideology promotes individualism over collective well-being.
2. The media serves as a tool for ideological control, perpetuating capitalist values and masking class exploitation.
3. Corporate-dominated media suppresses working-class perspectives, critical thought, and revolutionary ideas, reinforcing bourgeois hegemony.
Capitalist ideology permeates the media, promoting individualism and obscuring collective interests. The media serves as a tool for ideological control, perpetuating bourgeois values and masking class exploitation. Corporate dominance suppresses working-class perspectives, critical thought, and revolutionary ideas, reinforcing bourgeois hegemony. This manipulates public opinion, legitimates capitalist power, and undermines socialist consciousness. Marxist-Leninists must critically evaluate media, expose its ideological function, and promote alternative platforms for proletarian voices and revolutionary ideas.
*7. Exposing Revisionism, Bourgeois Deviation, and Neoliberalism*
1. Opportunists include progressives, social democrats.
2. Liberal reforms are insufficient.
3. Greed and superiority hinder unity.
Marxist-Leninists must vigilantly expose and combat revisionism, bourgeois deviation, and neoliberalism, which undermine socialist revolution. Opportunists, including progressive reformists and social democrats, distract from class struggle with liberal reforms that perpetuate capitalist exploitation. These insufficient measures fail to address systemic inequality, masking the root causes of oppression. Moreover, bourgeois values of greed, individualism, and superiority fragment working-class unity, hindering collective action. Marxist-Leninists must denounce these deviations, uphold proletarian ideology, and advocate for revolutionary transformation, not reformist compromises, to achieve a classless, socialist society.
*8. Role of the Proletariat*
1. True socialists prioritize people's needs over industry interests.
2. The proletariat is the revolutionary class, destined to overthrow bourgeoisie rule.
3. Proletarian leadership is essential for socialist transformation.
4. The proletariat includes all able-bodied people capable of working, excluding the bourgeoisie, encompassing industrial workers, agricultural laborers, service workers, and unemployed and underemployed individuals.
The proletariat plays a vital role in socialist revolution. True socialists prioritize people's needs over industry interests, recognizing the proletariat as the revolutionary class destined to overthrow bourgeoisie rule. Proletarian leadership is essential for socialist transformation, empowering the working class to seize power and build a socialist society. The proletariat encompasses all able-bodied workers, including industrial, agricultural, service workers, and the unemployed, united against bourgeois exploitation. By mobilizing and organizing, the proletariat becomes the driving force for revolutionary change, establishing a dictatorship of the proletariat and paving the way for a classless, socialist future.
*9. Revolutionary Transition*
1. National divisions stem from production and ownership.
2. Class distinctions breed division.
3. Centralization prevents human exploitation.
4. Lenin's three fundamental theses.
Revolutionary transition requires addressing national and class divisions rooted in production and ownership. Class distinctions, born from capitalist exploitation, must be eradicated through centralized socialist ownership. This prevents human exploitation, ensuring equal distribution of resources. Guided by Lenin's three fundamental theses - imperialism as highest stage of capitalism, proletariat revolution, and socialist construction - the transition involves smashing bourgeois rule, establishing dictatorship of the proletariat, and building a socialist society. Centralization under proletarian leadership ensures a unified, exploitation-free nation, paving the way for communism.
*10. Alternative Ideologies: Socialist and Communist Worldviews and Challenges*
1. Idealism is linked to religion.
2. Utopian socialism identifies problems but lacks solutions.
3. Marxism differs from utopian socialism.
4. Materialist doctrine does not neglect that circumstances are changed by humans.
5. Originality and substance are essential in philosophy.
Idealism, rooted in religious and occasionally cultural thinking, obscures reality. Utopian socialism, while identifying social issues, fails to provide concrete solutions. In contrast, Marxism offers a scientific, materialist approach, recognizing humans actively change circumstances through class struggle and revolutionary action. Unlike utopian socialism, Marxism provides a nuanced understanding of socialist transformation. A genuine communist worldview demands originality, substance, and a commitment to materialist philosophy, distinguishing itself from idealist and reformist alternatives. By grasping Marxism's theoretical and practical significance, communists can effectively challenge bourgeois ideology and build a socialist future.
*11. Socialist Mode of Production*
1. Private property dehumanizes individuals and perpetuates poverty.
2. Private property hinders social reform.
3. Private ownership creates human rights violations.
4. Dühring's views on land rent are unclear and inconsistent.
5. Rent and profit distinction is unclear.
6. Self-management explanation is unsuccessful.
7. Net product circulation is unclear.
8. Dühring's concept of infinity is based on numerical series.
9. Rousseau's doctrine of equality influences Dühring's.
10. Hegelian dialectics influences Rousseau's thought.
Private property is a fundamental obstacle to human liberation, perpetuating poverty, dehumanization, and human rights violations. It hinders social reform and reinforces exploitative relations. Critiquing bourgeois theories, Marxists reject Eugen Dühring's ambiguous views on land rent, profit, and self-management, which reflect his flawed understanding of dialectics. Dühring's thought is influenced by Jean-Jacques Rousseau's doctrine of equality and Hegelian dialectics, demonstrating the limitations of utopian socialism. A socialist mode of production, by contrast, seeks to abolish private property and establish collective ownership, paving the way for a classless society.
*12. Planning and Economic Coordination*
1. Capitalism requires poverty, divides rich and poor.
2. Civil law upholds private property sanctity.
3. Government protects national industry.
4. Nationalization prevents human exploitation.
5. Recognize left doctrinairism.
6. Engage broadly, avoid sectarianism.
Capitalism inherently perpetuates poverty and inequality, reinforced by civil law's protection of private property and government support for national industry. To overcome exploitation, nationalization of key sectors is essential. However, this requires vigilance against left doctrinairism, which can hinder unity and effective action. Successful socialist planning and economic coordination demand broad engagement, avoiding sectarian divisions and fostering a united front against capitalism. By recognizing the inherent contradictions of capitalism and promoting collective ownership, socialist planning can create a more equitable and just society.
Revolutionary Strategy, Rules, Unity, Legacy, the Transition to Communism, Rules and the Dictatorship of the Proletariat
The path to a classless, egalitarian society requires the proletariat's seizure of power, establishment of a socialist state, and transition to communism, achieved through revolutionary strategy, unity, and discipline. As the driving force of socialist revolution, the proletariat must master diverse forms of struggle and organization, forge alliances with oppressed classes, and adapt tactics internationally. By integrating Marxist theory, acknowledging the dictatorship of the proletariat, and constructing robust communist institutions, revolutionary forces can dismantle bourgeois domination, eliminate class divisions, and realize true social equality.
*1. Revolutionary Tactics*
1. Revolution requires revolutionary spirit, readiness, and uncompromising values.
2. Objective-oriented revolution tactics are crucial.
3. Pseudos must be exposed.
4. Mastering forms of struggle and organization.
5. Alliance with peasants protects against bourgeoisie.
6. Alliance between proletariat and peasants necessary for democracy.
7. Utilizing reserves for revolution.
8. Concentrating forces.
9. Tactics grow with the Party and movement.
10. Employ flexible tactics internationally.
11. Avoid rigid tactics.
12. Selecting right moment for action.
13. Legal and illegal means are justified for revolution.
14. Divisive elements must be destroyed.
15. Existing state machine must be destroyed.
16. Dictatorship of proletariat to crush resistance.
17. Written and spoken words count as warfare.
18. Use of political general strike.
19. Paris Commune offers lessons on replacing bourgeoisie state.
20. Advancement must continue legalization attempts.
The revolutionary tactics of the proletariat aim to overthrow the bourgeoisie and establish a socialist state. Key principles include mastering forms of struggle and organization, forming alliances with peasants and other oppressed classes, and employing flexible tactics internationally. The proletariat must utilize legal and illegal means, destroy divisive elements, and concentrate forces to achieve victory. The dictatorship of the proletariat is necessary to crush resistance and protect the gains of the revolution. Through strategic leadership, advancement of legalization attempts, and unwavering commitment to revolutionary spirit, the proletariat can overcome imperialism and achieve a classless, socialist society. Study of the Paris Commune and other revolutionary experiences informs the development of effective tactics and strategies for achieving socialist revolution.
*2. Understanding Revolutionary Strategy*
1. Class struggle drives development.
2. Class struggle requires proletariat control and dictatorship.
3. National divisions stem from production and ownership.
4. People are deceived by ruling classes.
5. Business will resist surrendering control to the public.
6. World history teaches class struggle doctrine.
7. Marx and Engels presented principles of Marxism (still aren't taken seriously by leftists).
8. Engels emphasized the state's coercive force from class conflicts.
9. Russian Social-Democracy required advanced theory and vanguard leadership.
10. Organization and tasks must be clearly defined.
11. Planning and organization are essential for Socialist movements.
12. Identifying central tasks.
13. Ensuring fulfillment of central tasks.
14. Understanding contradiction is crucial for determining policies.
15. Analyze principal and non-principal contradictions and aspects.
16. Understanding economic roots of imperialism crucial for communist movement.
17. Revolutionary action requires understanding of reformism's limitations.
18. Learn from mistakes.
19. Master social activity.
20. Temporary dictatorship of the proletariat follows revolution.
Class struggle drives societal development, necessitating proletariat control and dictatorship to overcome ruling class deception and resistance. Marxist theory, as outlined by Marx and Engels, reveals the state's coercive role in maintaining class divisions. Effective socialist movement requires clear organization, planning, and identification of central tasks. Understanding contradictions, imperialism's economic roots, and lessons from past mistakes informs strategic action. Revolutionary success demands mastering social activity, recognizing reformism's limitations, and temporarily establishing proletariat dictatorship. By grasping these principles, communist movements can overcome bourgeois oppression, achieving a classless, socialist society.
*3. Unity and Discipline*
1. Unity among workers should outweigh wages.
2. Workers must unite against bourgeoisie.
3. Importance of unity and collective action.
4. Unite communist parties and groups.
5. Party unity crucial.
6. Membership must be strict and selective.
7. Membership must be large, but methods secret.
8. Leadership and organizational ranks must be secret.
9. Avoid demagods/demigods.
10. Leaders must be professional revolutionaries.
11. Rigorous party discipline and centralization are necessary.
12. Party organization requiring unity and minority subordination.
13. Centralized direction for party unity.
14. Iron discipline and unity for party success.
15. Build strong party organization.
16. Professional revolutionaries are essential.
17. Revolutionaries must speak different tongues.
18. Promotion from within strengthens the movement.
19. True freedom emerges from individual class unity.
20. True freedom means fighting for convictions, not retreating.
Unity and discipline are essential for the proletariat's victory over the bourgeoisie. Workers must prioritize unity over individual interests, recognizing their collective strength as the foundation of revolutionary success. A strong, centralized party organization, led by professional revolutionaries, is crucial for achieving this unity. Rigorous discipline, minority subordination, and secrecy are necessary to protect the movement from bourgeois infiltration and ensure effective action. True freedom emerges from individual class unity, requiring unwavering commitment to convictions and rejection of reformist retreats. By building a unified, disciplined, and centralized party, communist forces can overcome capitalist oppression and achieve a socialist society.
*4. Dictatorship of the Proletariat and its Role*
Here is the single list of 15 points:
1. A political transition period requires the revolutionary dictatorship of the proletariat.
2. Proletariat must seize political power.
3. Dictatorship of proletariat centralizes production, suppresses bourgeoisie.
4. Proletariat needs temporary state to suppress exploiters.
5. Dictatorship of proletariat to crush resistance.
6. Centralize instruments of production in the hands of the State (proletariat).
7. Means of production become state property.
8. Centralization prevents human exploitation.
9. The proletariat's supremacy as a class will be abolished, and the state must undergo alterations.
10. Classless society emerges after revolution.
11. The state will wither away in a classless socialist society.
12. State cannot be abolished until representing everyone.
13. Only recognizing dictatorship of proletariat makes one a true Marxist.
14. State must wither away, unlike reformist socialists' permanent institution.
15. American state currently prevents anarcho-capitalism.
The dictatorship of the proletariat is a crucial transitional phase toward a classless socialist society. Following the revolution, the proletariat must seize power, centralizing production and suppressing the bourgeoisie. This temporary state, led by the vanguard party, prevents exploitation and crushes resistance. As the proletariat's supremacy fades, the state will wither away, giving rise to a classless society where means of production are collectively owned. Recognizing the dictatorship of the proletariat as essential distinguishes true Marxists from reformist socialists. This transitional state, unlike bourgeois institutions, serves the people, ultimately becoming unnecessary as socialism prevails.
*5. Transition to Communism*
1. Communism seeks to eliminate state, private property, and exploitation.
2. Class antagonisms and classes will be abolished.
3. Society must seize means of production/distribution.
4. Labor will triumph over capital.
5. State dissolution requires worker revolution.
6. State is tool of class oppression, withering away with class abolition.
7. The state will wither away in a classless socialist society.
8. Classless society emerges after revolution.
9. New modes of production and exchange lead to conflicts.
10. Communism doesn't stop in one nation, it continues until all nations are liberated.
Communism aims to abolish class antagonisms, private property, and exploitation, establishing a global classless society. This requires a worker revolution to seize means of production and distribution, triumphing labor over capital. The state, a tool of class oppression, will wither away as classes are abolished. Emerging from revolution, a socialist society will ultimately give rise to communism, where new modes of production and exchange replace capitalist conflicts. Key to this transition is the understanding that the state's dissolution depends on the eradication of classes. Furthermore, communist revolution is not limited to national borders; it is a global process, continuing until all nations are liberated from capitalist exploitation. Only through this worldwide triumph of communism can true human emancipation and equality be achieved.
*6. Party Building and Organization*
1. New institutions are needed to defeat old ruling classes.
2. Proletariat rises and organizes against class struggle.
3. Organization is key for successful movements.
4. Revolutionary movements must be centralized.
5. Build strong party organization.
6. Revolutionary party leadership.
7. Strategic and tactical leadership.
8. Leadership must promote from within.
9. Party tactics must be defined and use propaganda, agitation, and theory.
10. Training cadres under proletarian rule.
To achieve revolutionary victory, the proletariat must organize and build a strong, centralized party with clear tactics and leadership. New institutions must replace old ruling class structures, and strategic leadership must guide the movement. Propaganda, agitation, and theory are essential tools for mobilizing the masses. Leadership should promote from within, fostering capable cadres under proletarian rule. A well-organized party is crucial for overcoming class struggle, defeating the bourgeoisie, and establishing a socialist society. Through centralized leadership and grassroots mobilization, the revolutionary party will triumph over capitalist oppression, paving the way for a communist future.
*7. Importance of Unity and Collective Action*
1. Unity and Discipline are crucial.
2. Party unity crucial.
3. Splitting farmland weakens farm workers' power.
4. Narrow visions limit abilities.
5. People must think critically.
6. Unite communist parties and groups.
Unity and discipline are vital for the proletariat's revolutionary success. A united party, free from factionalism and narrow visions, enables effective collective action against capitalist exploitation. Critical thinking and a unified leadership ensure the movement's strength and direction. Conversely, division and fragmentation, as seen in split farmland, weaken worker power. To achieve socialist liberation, communist parties and groups must unify, transcending sectarian differences and mobilizing the masses under a single, disciplined banner. Through unity and collective action, the working class will overcome bourgeois oppression and advance toward communism.
*8. Building Communist Institutions*
1. Protecting humanity cannot be compromised.
2. Exploitation and oppression are unacceptable.
3. Conscious leadership and political struggle are necessary.
4. Movements must avoid narrow-mindedness and amateur work.
5. Democracy will exist, but humanity's protection comes first.
Building communist institutions requires unwavering commitment to humanity's protection and the eradication of exploitation and oppression. Conscious leadership and relentless political struggle are essential to achieve this goal. Movements must transcend narrow-mindedness and amateurism, embracing a disciplined and scientific approach. While democracy will exist, its primary objective will be ensuring humanity's well-being, superseding bourgeois notions of democracy that perpetuate inequality. By prioritizing humanity's protection and harnessing collective action, communist institutions will empower the masses, eliminate exploitation, and pave the way for a socialist future.
*9. Legacy of Revolutionary Movements*
Here are the 4 points:
Legacy of Revolutionary Movements
1. Revolutionary classes represent universal interests.
2. Revolution transforms society as a whole.
3. Distinction between workers and professional revolutionaries is necessary.
4. Women are equal to men, as in ancient cultures.
Revolutionary movements, driven by classes representing universal interests, transform society as a whole, uprooting exploitation and oppression. A clear distinction between workers and professional revolutionaries ensures effective leadership and organization. Furthermore, revolutionary movements recognize and restore women's equality, reclaiming the parity existing in ancient cultures. By embracing this transformative vision, communist revolutions pave the way for a classless, egalitarian society, realizing the inherent potential of humanity.
*10. Consolidating Socialist Gains and Preventing Counter-Revolution*
1. Imperialism confirmed as eve of social revolution.
2. Colonization and monopolies spark revolutions.
3. Under capitalism, private ownership and unregulated markets create human rights violations.
4. Private property dehumanizes individuals and perpetuates poverty.
5. Class distinctions breed division.
6. State represents bourgeoisie/capitalist interests.
7. Under capitalism, civil law upholds private property sanctity.
8. Government protects national industry (in socialist context).
9. Freedom comes from understanding necessity.
To consolidate socialist gains and prevent counter-revolution, it's crucial to recognize imperialism's role in sparking social revolution. Under capitalism, private ownership and unregulated markets perpetuate human rights violations, dehumanize individuals, and entrench poverty. Class distinctions breed division, while the state serves bourgeoisie interests and civil law protects private property. In contrast, socialist governments protect national industry, prioritizing collective well-being. Understanding the necessity of socialist transformation is key to achieving true freedom. By exposing capitalism's inherent contradictions and building socialist alternatives, revolutionary forces can safeguard gains and advance toward a classless, equitable society.
Imperialism and Global Capitalism
Imperialism and global capitalism represent the highest stage of capitalist development, characterized by monopoly capitalism, finance capital dominance, and neocolonialism. This exploitative system perpetuates inequality, underdevelopment, and environmental degradation globally, fueling wars, proxy conflicts, and cultural erosion. Through its mechanisms – colonialism, neoliberalism, and inter-imperialist rivalries – imperialism maintains dominance over oppressed nations and exploits working-class populations. This analysis of imperialism's historical development, mechanisms of exploitation, and anti-imperialist strategies, emphasizing the necessity of socialist revolution to achieve a truly equitable and just global order.
*1. Imperialism and Colonization*
1. Imperialism involves struggle for global division and control of colonies and financial influence.
2. Imperialism divides world among handful of states.
3. Imperialism exploits oppressed nations.
4. Imperialism corrupts the upper working class.
5. Right to self-determination for oppressed nations.
6. Imperialism's weakest link sparking revolution.
7. Imperialism affects principal contradiction in semi-colonial countries.
8. Finance capital intensifies national oppression.
9. Imperialism strives to annex agrarian and industrial regions.
10. Great powers divided world among themselves.
11. Six great powers controlled 65 million sq km colonial territory.
12. Capital-exporting countries obtained advantages.
13. Imperialism perpetuates colonialism through economic exploitation, cultural imperialism, and military occupation.
14. Colonized nations' resources are plundered to fuel imperialist powers' growth.
15. Imperialism creates artificial borders, dividing nations and fostering conflicts.
16. Imperialism's impact on indigenous populations and cultures.
17. Historical examples of colonialism and imperialism (e.g., British Raj, Belgian Congo).
18. Role of military interventions and occupations.
Imperialism is a system where powerful nations exploit and dominate oppressed ones, perpetuating inequality and underdevelopment (Imperialism and Colonization). This exploitation is driven by the export of capital, uneven trade, and finance capital (Global Capital Flow). Imperialism also leads to neocolonialism and dependency, maintaining control through economic aid, loans, and structural adjustment policies (Neocolonialism and Dependency). Inter-imperialist rivalries fuel wars and proxy conflicts (Imperialist Competition). To combat imperialism, Marxist-Leninists advocate for anti-imperialist strategies, including proletarian internationalism, national liberation movements, and socialist-oriented economic development (Anti-Imperialist Strategies). Understanding imperialism's effects on culture, environment, and women's rights is crucial (Understanding Imperialism and its Effects). Imperialism shapes global politics, influencing international law and institutions (Role of Imperialism in Shaping Global Politics). Ultimately, Marxist-Leninists seek to replace imperialism with alternative global economic systems, such as socialism and eco-socialism (Alternative Global Economic Systems).
*2. Global Capital Flow*
1. The world market is crucial for understanding economics.
2. British capital invested abroad increased 2.5 times.
3. Rapid growth in exports to financially dependent countries.
4. Export of capital becomes more important.
5. Export of capital increased.
6. Mechanisms of imperialist exploitation (e.g., loan sharking, unequal trade).
7. Imperialist powers exploit cheap labor in colonized countries.
8. Unequal trade agreements and tariffs perpetuate dependence on imperialist powers.
9. Impact of imperialism on local economies and industries.
Global capital flow is a key feature of imperialism, where capitalist powers exploit dependent countries through unequal trade, loan sharking, and export of capital. The world market drives this exploitation, with imperialist powers investing abroad, such as Britain's 2.5-fold increase in foreign investments. This leads to rapid growth in exports to financially dependent countries, perpetuating dependence. Imperialist powers exploit cheap labor, impose unequal trade agreements, and tariffs, stifling local economies. Marxist-Leninists recognize global capital flow as a mechanism of imperialist domination, necessitating anti-imperialist resistance and socialist-oriented economic development to break free from exploitation.
*3. Neocolonialism and Dependency*
1. Imperialism grows out of contradictions of capitalism.
2. Transition to monopoly capitalism intensified colonial partitioning.
3. Surplus capital in advanced countries utilized for exporting capital.
4. Export of capital accelerated capitalism's development.
5. Countries accumulate wealth from interest and dividends.
6. 'Rentier state' concept.
7. Colonial banks and branches played significant role.
8. International cartels increase disparities.
9. Alliances between imperialist powers are temporary.
10. Neo-colonialism maintains control through economic aid, loans, and structural adjustment policies.
11. Imperialist powers manipulate local elites to serve their interests.
12. Role of international financial institutions (IMF, World Bank) in perpetuating neocolonialism.
13. Economic dependency theory and its limitations.
Neocolonialism and dependency are inherent to imperialism, arising from capitalism's contradictions. Monopoly capitalism intensifies colonial partitioning, fueling surplus capital export from advanced countries. This perpetuates uneven development, accumulating wealth for imperial powers through interest and dividends. Colonial banks, international cartels, and temporary alliances among imperial powers maintain control. Neo-colonialism employs economic aid, loans, and structural adjustments to exploit dependent nations. Imperial powers co-opt local elites and utilize institutions like the IMF and World Bank to enforce dominance. Marxist-Leninists recognize economic dependency theory's limitations and advocate for anti-imperialist struggle, national liberation, and socialist-oriented development to break free from neocolonialism's grasp.
*4. Imperialist Competition*
1. Imperialism drives war and capitalist interests.
2. Economic power drives naval warfare.
3. Technique advances lead to changes in warfare methods.
4. Monopoly development began in 1860s.
5. Cartels developed during 1870s international depression.
6. Late 19th century marked significant shift in capitalism.
7. Germany's 300 capitalist magnates control economy.
8. Germany participated in around 100 international cartels.
9. International cartels formed.
10. International agreements and cartels formed.
11. Monopoly development accelerates during economic crises.
12. Cartels become foundation of economic life.
13. New imperialist powers emerge.
14. Inter-imperialist rivalries lead to wars and proxy conflicts.
15. Imperialist powers use propaganda and ideological manipulation to justify their dominance.
16. Inter-imperialist rivalries and their impact on global politics.
17. Role of military alliances and strategic partnerships.
Imperialist competition, driven by capitalist interests, fuels war and naval warfare. Monopoly capitalism emerged in the 1860s, intensifying with cartels forming during the 1870s depression. Germany's capitalist magnates exemplify imperialist control. International cartels and agreements solidify dominance. Economic crises accelerate monopoly growth, making cartels the foundation of economic life. New imperialist powers emerge, sparking inter-imperialist rivalries that lead to wars, proxy conflicts, and ideological manipulation. These rivalries shape global politics, with military alliances and strategic partnerships enforcing imperialist hegemony. Marxist-Leninists recognize imperialist competition as a fundamental contradiction of capitalism, necessitating anti-imperialist struggle and socialist revolution to abolish exploitation.
*5. Anti-Imperialist Strategies*
1. National rights subordinate to proletarian revolution.
2. Supporting oppressed nations.
3. Proletarian internationalism: workers' solidarity across nations against imperialism.
4. Importance of socialist solidarity and international cooperation.
5. National liberation movements: armed struggle and mass mobilization against colonialism.
6. Role of national liberation movements in anti-imperialist struggles.
7. Socialist-oriented economic development: breaking dependence on imperialist powers.
Anti-imperialist strategies necessitate subordinating national rights to the proletarian revolution, prioritizing support for oppressed nations. Proletarian internationalism unites workers across nations against imperialism, bolstered by socialist solidarity and international cooperation. National liberation movements employ armed struggle and mass mobilization to combat colonialism, playing a crucial role in anti-imperialist struggles. Ultimately, socialist-oriented economic development breaks dependence on imperialist powers, enabling true national sovereignty. Marxist-Leninists emphasize the importance of integrating anti-imperialist struggles with socialist revolution, recognizing that genuine liberation requires the overthrow of capitalist-imperialist systems.
*6. Understanding Imperialism and its Effects*
1. Imperialism is a specific historical stage of capitalism.
2. Imperialism is the highest stage of capitalism.
3. Imperialism characterized by economic parasitism.
4. Imperialism is monopoly capitalism.
5. Imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.
6. Concentration of production and capital leads to monopolies.
7. Monopolies from concentration of production.
8. Monopolies stimulate seizure of raw materials.
9. Four principal types of monopoly.
10. Merging of bank capital with industrial capital.
11. Finance capital, not industrial capital, characterizes imperialism.
12. Finance capital dominates through holding system.
13. Big banks absorb smaller ones.
14. Bank networks expand.
15. Banks influence capitalists through credits.
16. Giant combined enterprises emerge.
17. Banking connections with industry grow.
18. Bankers become industrial capitalists.
19. Finance capital defined as capital controlled by banks.
20. Holding system enables industrialists to dominate vast spheres.
21. Giant enterprises dominate industries.
22. Combination of production strengthens monopolies.
23. Monopolies assure enormous profits.
24. Monopoly development transforms industrial landscape.
25. Banking evolves into powerful monopolies.
26. Big banks control vast amounts of money capital.
27. Banks transform scattered capitalists into single collective capitalist.
28. Banking dominates economy.
29. Kautsky's definition of imperialism is incomplete.
30. Imperialism's ideological justifications: racism, Eurocentrism, and Orientalism.
31. Imperialism's impact on culture: erasure, assimilation, and cultural appropriation.
32. Imperialism's effects on environment: exploitation of natural resources, pollution, and climate change.
33. Imperialism's impact on women's rights and gender relations.
34. Cultural imperialism and its effects on national identity.
Imperialism represents the highest stage of capitalism, characterized by economic parasitism, monopoly capitalism, and finance capital dominance. Concentration of production and capital leads to monopolies, stimulating raw materials seizure and enormous profits. Banking evolves into powerful monopolies, controlling vast money capital and transforming scattered capitalists into a single collective capitalist. Imperialism perpetuates ideological justifications (racism, Eurocentrism, Orientalism) and wreaks havoc on culture (erasure, assimilation, cultural appropriation), environment (exploitation, pollution, climate change), women's rights, and national identity. Marxist-Leninists recognize imperialism's inherent contradictions, necessitating anti-imperialist struggle and socialist revolution to overthrow capitalist-imperialist systems and establish a truly equitable and just society.
*7. Global Capitalism and its Contradictions*
1. Capitalism's benefits are temporary.
2. Capitalist system crashes/reset every decade.
3. Market anarchy leads to crises, waste, and intensifies competition.
4. Capitalism's development varies across areas.
5. Railway statistics show rapid growth.
6. Specialization among bank directors increases.
7. Banks establish research services.
8. Issue of smaller denomination shares facilitates financial oligarchy.
9. Big banks dominate, accelerating technical progress.
10. Debate arises among bank directors about industry intervention.
11. Democratization of share ownership increases financial oligarchy's power.
12. Financial oligarchy cheats public through holding system.
13. Capitalist crises: overproduction, underconsumption, and financial instability.
14. Contradictions between productive forces and relations of production.
15. Role of technology in intensifying capitalist exploitation.
16. Imperialism's role in delaying socialist revolutions.
17. Global labor arbitrage: exploiting wage differences between nations.
18. Capitalism's latest stage characterized by export of capital.
19. Market anarchy intensifies competition.
20. Banks' growing influence accelerates capitalist development.
Global capitalism is marked by inherent contradictions, including temporary benefits, periodic crashes, and market anarchy leading to crises. Uneven development across areas, financial oligarchy, and big banks' dominance accelerate technical progress while exploiting the public. Capitalist crises stem from overproduction, underconsumption, and financial instability, exacerbated by contradictions between productive forces and relations of production. Imperialism delays socialist revolutions, exploiting wage differences through global labor arbitrage. Technology intensifies capitalist exploitation, while export of capital characterizes capitalism's latest stage. Marxist-Leninists recognize these contradictions as inevitable, necessitating anti-capitalist struggle and socialist revolution to overthrow the capitalist system and establish a socialist alternative.
*8. Role of Imperialism in Shaping Global Politics*
1. National question as international problem.
2. Germany, Britain, US dominate global politics.
3. Economic data reveals five main areas of imperialist control.
4. World finance capital concentrated in Britain, France, US, and Germany.
5. These countries held nearly 80% of global finance capital.
6. Personal links established between banks, industry, and government.
7. Imperialism enables high monopoly profits.
8. Imperialist powers create and manipulate international institutions (e.g., IMF, World Bank).
9. Imperialism's influence on global governance: UN, international law, and human rights.
10. Imperialist powers' strategies to maintain dominance: coups, regime change, and proxy wars.
11. Imperialism's influence on international law and institutions.
12. Role of NGOs and civil society in promoting or challenging imperialism.
13. Imperialist dominance perpetuates global inequality and exploitation.
Imperialism shapes global politics through dominance by a few powerful nations (Germany, Britain, US, France), controlling nearly 80% of global finance capital. Personal links between banks, industry, and government facilitate exploitation, generating high monopoly profits. Imperialist powers manipulate international institutions (IMF, World Bank, UN) and international law to maintain dominance through coups, regime change, and proxy wars. This perpetuates global inequality and exploitation. NGOs and civil society can either promote or challenge imperialism. Marxist-Leninists recognize imperialism's inherent contradictions, necessitating anti-imperialist struggle and socialist revolution to overthrow capitalist-imperialist systems and establish a truly equitable and just global order.
*9. Critique of Neoliberalism*
1. Neoliberalism as a form of imperialism: privatization, deregulation, and market fundamentalism.
2. Neoliberalism's impact on inequality, poverty, and social welfare.
3. Neoliberalism's impact on labor rights and working conditions.
4. Alternatives to neoliberalism (e.g., social democracy, socialism).
Neoliberalism represents a virulent form of imperialism, characterized by privatization, deregulation, and market fundamentalism. This ideology exacerbates inequality, poverty, and erosion of social welfare, while ruthlessly exploiting labor and dismantling workers' rights. Neoliberal policies serve the interests of monopoly capital, intensifying class struggle and undermining socialist progress. Marxist-Leninists reject neoliberalism's false promises of "free market" efficiency and instead advocate for socialist alternatives, such as social democracy and socialism, which prioritize people's needs over capitalist profits, ensuring true social justice and equality.
*10. Alternative Global Economic Systems*
1. Socialist-oriented economic integration: regional cooperation and mutual aid.
2. Models of socialist-oriented economic development (e.g., Cuba, China).
3. Role of cooperatives and collective ownership in alternative economic systems.
4. Post-imperialist global governance: democratizing international institutions.
5. Eco-socialist alternatives: sustainable development, climate justice, and environmental protection.
Alternative global economic systems, rooted in socialist principles, offer a viable challenge to imperialism and capitalist exploitation. Socialist-oriented economic integration and models of development (e.g., Cuba, China) demonstrate the potential for cooperative regional growth. Cooperatives and collective ownership empower the working class, prefiguring a post-imperialist global governance that democratizes international institutions. Eco-socialist alternatives prioritize sustainable development, climate justice, and environmental protection, reconciling human needs with ecological balance. These alternatives necessitate anti-capitalist struggle, overthrowing imperialist dominance, and establishing socialist relations of production to achieve true global justice and equality.
Marxist Theory and Methodology
Marxism-Leninism is a revolutionary ideology that understands society as a class struggle between the bourgeoisie and proletariat. Capitalism creates alienation, inequality, and oppression, but Marxist theory, rooted in dialectical materialism, reveals the interconnectedness of historical and economic processes. Through socialist transformation, humanity can achieve liberation, equality, and communist society. Key principles include class analysis, dialectical methodology, critique of positivism and empiricism, and materialist epistemology. Marxist-Leninists apply critical thinking, scientific analysis, and revolutionary practice to achieve socialist revolution and communist transformation.
*1. Class Analysis*
1. Class struggle and its role in shaping history
2. Bourgeoisie vs. proletariat: class relationships and conflicts
3. Class consciousness and false consciousness
4. Economics shapes social order
5. Production conditions lead to state control
6. Economics determines social structure and shapes socialist principles
7. Class formation and struggle in historical contexts
8. Intersectionality with other forms of oppression
9. Need for production/distribution changes
10. Failure of capitalist regulation mechanisms
Marxism-Leninism is a revolutionary ideology recognizing society as a class struggle between the capitalist bourgeoisie and exploited proletariat. Capitalism, driven by profit and exploitation, perpetuates alienation, inequality, and oppression, intersecting with racism, sexism, and imperialism. Through class analysis, Marxist-Leninists understand the complex historical and economic processes driving these injustices. To overcome them, they advocate for fundamental changes in production and distribution, replacing exploitative systems with socialist relations. The proletariat, united under a vanguard party's leadership, must overthrow the capitalist state and establish a dictatorship of the proletariat. Guided by dialectical materialism, critique of positivism and empiricism, and materialist epistemology, Marxist-Leninists employ critical thinking, scientific analysis, and revolutionary practice to achieve true social equality, liberation, and communist society.
*2. Understanding Marxist Theory*
1. Marx replaced abstract man with science of real men and historical development.
2. Marxist conception of history reveals interconnections in facts.
3. Materialism should consider reality as human activity or practice, not just contemplation.
4. Materialism must criticize the real human essence, the ensemble of social relations.
5. Essence should be understood beyond the concept of "genus".
6. Old materialism's standpoint was civil society, while new materialism's is human society.
7. Marx's analysis of capital recognizes surplus value's importance.
8. Alienation and its effects on workers.
9. Marxist perspectives on imperialism and colonialism.
10. The role of ideology in shaping social relations.
11. Production conflicts with capitalist distribution.
12. Marxist theory requires understanding the role of the state and dictatorship of the proletariat.
13. The Basel Manifesto guides socialist action.
14. Socialists must prioritize scientific analysis.
15. Frank admission and analysis of mistakes.
16. Testing theoretical dogmas in revolutionary struggle.
17. Study particular contradiction and essence of every system and process.
18. Recognize the importance of dialectical materialism.
19. Understand the role of class struggle in shaping history.
20. Integrate theory with practical action.
21. Class formation and class struggle in different historical contexts
22. Intersectionality of class with other forms of oppression
23. Class struggle leads to exploitation and inequality
24. Solving humanity's problems requires production/distribution changes
25. Regulating production via trusts fails, leading to monopolies
Marxist theory revolutionizes understanding of history, society, and human relations through scientific analysis, revealing interconnected facts and social relations. Materialism considers reality as human activity, criticizing contemplation. Marx's analysis exposes surplus value, alienation, imperialism, and production's conflict with capitalist distribution. Marxist theory recognizes the necessity of dictatorship of the proletariat and emphasizes transforming production and distribution relations to replace exploitative systems with socialist ownership. Class struggle, shaped by dialectical materialism, inherently leads to exploitation and inequality. To overcome injustices, Marxist-Leninist principles guide revolutionary class struggle, prioritizing scientific analysis, admitting mistakes, and integrating theory with practical action. This struggle aims to achieve true social equality, eradicate exploitation, and build a socialist future, as emphasized by the Basel Manifesto.
*3. Importance of Dialectical Methodology*
1. Unity of opposites and contradictions
2. Quantitative and qualitative changes
3. Negation of the negation
4. Mathematical certainty cannot be applied to historical and social sciences
5. Philosophy of reality should avoid ideology
6. Abstract concepts can be misleading
7. Personal biases undermine philosophical objectivity
8. Multiple contradictions exist in complex things
9. Principal contradiction determines or influences others
10. Use qualitatively different methods to resolve different contradictions
11. Shun subjectivity, one-sidedness, and superficiality
12. Social life is essentially practical
13. Marxist theory must adapt to changing circumstances
14. Marxist theory must take into account complexity of life/variety of class relations
15. Marxist theory must integrate theory with practical action
Dialectical methodology is crucial for understanding societal development and revolutionary change. It recognizes the unity of opposites, quantitative and qualitative transformations, and the negation of the negation. Marxist theory rejects mathematical certainty and ideological philosophies, instead embracing complexity, nuance, and practicality. Dialectics acknowledges multiple contradictions, prioritizes principal ones, and adapts to changing circumstances. To achieve revolutionary insight, Marxists must shun subjectivity, abstract concepts, and superficiality, integrating theory with practical action. By embracing dialectics, Marxists can grasp the dynamic, contradictory nature of social life and effectively navigate the complexities of class struggle.
*4. Critique of Positivism and Empiricism*
1. Limitations of empirical research
2. Critique of bourgeois social science
3. Marxist alternative to positivist methodologies
4. Economists fail to understand Marxism and political education
5. Economists bow to labor movements, terrorists to intellectuals
6. Imposing philosophical axioms on nature and humanity is flawed
7. Mathematics derives from human needs and experience
Marxist-Leninists reject the limitations of empirical research and bourgeois social science, which serve capitalist interests. Instead, Marxism offers a revolutionary alternative to positivist methodologies, emphasizing dialectical materialism and class struggle. Bourgeois economists fail to grasp Marxism's nuances and political education, often bowing to labor movements and intellectual pressure. Marxist theory recognizes that knowledge, including mathematics, derives from human needs and experience, not abstract axioms imposed on nature and humanity. By critiquing bourgeois social science and embracing Marxist methodology, revolutionaries can uncover the truth about class relations and forge a path towards socialist transformation.
*5. Marxist Epistemology and Ontology*
1. Historical determinism vs. voluntarism
2. Role of human agency in shaping history
3. Marxist perspectives on ethics and morality
4. Socialism requires materialistic understanding and is rooted in historical development and economic conditions
5. Socialism requires understanding of economics and history
6. Objective study is necessary
7. Darwin's theory of evolution is well-founded
8. Organic world concepts require understanding cellular biology
9. Life is the mode of existence of albuminous bodies
10. Life characteristics include nutrition, excretion, irritability, contractibility, growth, and internal movement
11. Sensation and pleasure/pain concepts are complex
12. Life definition should be based on scientific understanding
Marxism-Leninism is a revolutionary ideology recognizing society as a class struggle between the capitalist bourgeoisie and exploited proletariat. Capitalism perpetuates alienation, inequality, and oppression, intersecting with racism, sexism, and imperialism. Through class analysis and dialectical materialism, Marxist-Leninists understand historical and economic processes. To overcome injustices, they advocate for transforming production and distribution relations, replacing exploitative systems with socialist ownership and planning. Guided by scientific analysis and revolutionary practice, Marxist-Leninists strive for dictatorship of the proletariat, true social equality, and communist society, emphasizing the necessity of objective study, materialistic understanding, and integration of theory with practical action.
*6. Application of Marxist Theory in Practice*
1. Marxist approaches to organization and leadership
2. Revolutionary strategy and tactics
3. Building a socialist movement
4. Importance of practice and practical results
5. Concrete analysis is essential
6. Philosophy must engage with living reality
7. Philosophy should aim to understand real-world phenomena
8. Combine Marxist theory and practical action
9. Illegal revolutionary organizations are necessary
10. Adapt communist principles to national distinctions
Marxist-Leninists emphasize the importance of revolutionary organization and leadership, strategic tactics, and building a socialist movement. Effective revolution requires combining Marxist theory with practical action, concrete analysis, and engagement with living reality. Philosophy must serve the people, understanding real-world phenomena to inform revolutionary praxis. To achieve socialist transformation, communist principles must be adapted to national distinctions, and illegal revolutionary organizations may be necessary to challenge bourgeois hegemony. Emphasizing practice and practical results, Marxist-Leninists unite theory and action to overcome capitalist exploitation and build a socialist future.
*7. Alternative Methodologies*
1. Critique of anarchism for being egoistic
2. Critique of social democracy for being opportunistic
3. Critique of liberalism for preserving capitalism
Marxist-Leninists reject alternative methodologies that undermine revolutionary socialism. Anarchism is critiqued for its egoistic focus on individual liberty, neglecting collective action and proletarian unity. Social democracy is condemned for opportunism, compromising with capitalism and abandoning revolutionary principles. Liberalism is exposed for preserving capitalist exploitation, masking class interests behind notions of equality and freedom. In contrast, Marxist-Leninism offers a scientific, dialectical approach to understanding and transforming society, prioritizing collective ownership, class struggle, and the dictatorship of the proletariat. By critiquing these alternatives, Marxist-Leninists affirm the necessity of revolutionary struggle and the socialist transformation of society.
*8. Materialism*
1. Marxist perspectives on science and technology
2. Materialist conceptions of human nature and potential
3. Dialectical materialism and its applications
4. Study all sides and connections to understand an object
5. Discover both particular and universal aspects and their interconnections
6. Universality of contradiction resides in particularity
7. Particularity of contradiction requires studying different levels
8. Contradictions have both absolute and relative aspects
9. Development involves quantitative and qualitative changes
10. Interconnections in facts put an end to philosophy in history
11. Materialism considers reality as human activity or practice
12. Materialism criticizes the real human essence, social relations
13. Sensuousness is practical human-sensuous activity
Marxist-Leninists approach science, technology, and human nature through the lens of dialectical materialism, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all phenomena. To understand reality, one must study all sides and connections, recognizing both particular and universal aspects and their interrelations. Contradictions are inherent, with universality residing in particularity, and development occurring through quantitative and qualitative changes. Materialism rejects contemplation, instead emphasizing human activity and practice as the basis of reality. It critiques the social relations that shape human essence, stressing sensuous, practical activity. By applying these principles, Marxist-Leninists strive to transform society, overcoming capitalist exploitation and building a socialist future.
Critique of Revisionism and Reformism
Marxist-Leninist theory emphasizes the necessity of revolutionary struggle against capitalism, rejecting reformist and revisionist tendencies that undermine proletarian liberation. This study guide critically examines revisionism, reformism, opportunism, and gradualism, highlighting their manifestations within the socialist movement. Through analysis of historical lessons, Marxist-Leninist principles, and critiques of social democracy, liberalism, and imperialism, this guide equips revolutionaries with the theoretical foundations to counter bourgeois influence and maintain revolutionary integrity. By understanding the strategic threats to socialism and upholding Marxist-Leninist principles, revolutionaries can ensure the working class remains committed to overthrowing capitalism and establishing a socialist society.
*1. Understanding Revisionism and Reformism*
1. Revisionism is an international phenomenon/inevitable due to class roots.
2. Recognizing bourgeois tactics, such as granting and taking away reforms.
3. Reformism divides/deceives workers.
4. Critically evaluating reformist arguments and actions.
5. Reformism is a bourgeois strategy to deceive and weaken the working class.
6. Reformism corrupts and weakens the workers' movement.
Revisionism and reformism are manifestations of bourgeois influence within the working-class movement, aiming to undermine revolutionary struggle. As an international phenomenon rooted in class contradictions, revisionism inevitably emerges to preserve capitalist interests. Bourgeois tactics include granting reforms to placate workers, only to take them away later, dividing and deceiving the working class. Reformism corrupts and weakens the workers' movement by fostering illusions of gradual, peaceful change within the capitalist system. Marxist-Leninists must critically evaluate reformist arguments and actions, recognizing them as a strategic attempt to divert the working class from its revolutionary goals. By understanding revisionism and reformism, revolutionaries can effectively counter these bourgeois strategies and maintain a committed, revolutionary stance.
*2. Critique of Social Democracy and Liberalism*
7. Kautsky distorted Marxist theory by abandoning dialectics and class struggle.
8. Kautsky's views opposed Marxist principles and supported petty-bourgeois nationalism.
9. Legal Marxism emerged from an alliance between revolutionary socialists and opportunistic bourgeoisie socialists.
10. Kautsky's views contradict Marxist theory
11. Lenin criticizes Kautsky's "ultra-imperialism"
12. Kautskyism renounces Marxist revolutionary principles.
13. Dühring's system lacks substance.
Social democracy, and democratic socialism are pseudo-socialist deviations from Marxist principles, along with liberalism, all three represent serving bourgeois interests. Karl Kautsky's revisionism exemplifies this, distorting Marxist theory by abandoning dialectics and class struggle, and promoting petty-bourgeois nationalism. His "ultra-imperialism" theory, criticized by Lenin, undermines revolutionary principles. Legal Marxism, an alliance between revolutionary socialists and opportunistic bourgeoisie socialists, further waters down Marxist ideology. Dühring's system, lacking substance, demonstrates the hollow nature of these bourgeois-inspired alternatives. Marxist-Leninists reject these pseudo-leftist tendencies, recognizing them as attempts to reconcile proletariat interests with capitalist dominance. By critiquing social democracy, democratic socialism, and liberalism, revolutionaries can uphold Marxist principles, class struggle, and the necessity of proletarian revolution.
*3. Importance of Revolutionary Strategy*
14. Resolute struggle against revisionist trends is necessary.
15. Revolutionary vs. reformist strategies.
16. Revolutionaries viewing reforms as strengthening revolution
17. Revolutionary tactics viewing reforms as by-products
18. Distinction between revolutionary and reformist tactics
19. Rejection of "permanent revolution"
20. Purging opportunism
21. No reformism
Effective revolutionary strategy is crucial for achieving proletarian victory. Marxist-Leninists must wage a resolute struggle against revisionist trends, rejecting reformist strategies that reconcile workers' interests with capitalist dominance. Revolutionaries recognize reforms as temporary concessions to strengthen the revolutionary movement or as by-products of revolutionary struggle, not ends in themselves. A clear distinction between revolutionary and reformist tactics is essential. Marxist-Leninists reject "permanent revolution" theories, which blur the lines between bourgeois-democratic and socialist revolutions. Purging opportunism and refusing to compromise with reformism are vital to maintaining revolutionary integrity. By upholding revolutionary principles and rejecting reformist illusions, Marxist-Leninists ensure the working class remains committed to overthrowing capitalism and establishing socialism.
*4. Critique of Reformism*
22. Reformism stems from alliance with bourgeoisie.
23. Socialism/communism lacks clear direction.
24. Reformist socialists' permanent institution contradicts Marxist principles.
25. Equal wages and consumption rights are insufficient.
26. His pedagogy and morality are flawed.
Reformism, rooted in alliance with the bourgeoisie, undermines revolutionary struggle by promoting gradual, incremental changes within the capitalist system. This approach lacks clear direction, obscuring the ultimate goal of socialist transformation. Reformist socialists' advocacy for permanent institutions and equal wages/consumption rights contradicts Marxist principles, as these measures fail to address the fundamental exploitation inherent in capitalism. Furthermore, reformist pedagogy and morality are flawed, perpetuating bourgeois values and masking class contradictions. Marxist-Leninists reject reformism's illusions, recognizing that true socialism requires the abolition of capitalist relations, not their reform. By critiquing reformism, revolutionaries emphasize the necessity of proletarian revolution and the establishment of a dictatorship of the proletariat to achieve socialism.
*5. Opportunism and False Allies*
27. Pseudo-revolutionaries ignore theory, and opportunists disregard progress.
28. Those who betrayed socialism must be named/branded as traitors.
29. Leaders' actions contradicted socialist principles.
30. Rich countries bribe upper strata of proletariat
31. Opportunism strengthens
32. British working class divided
Opportunism and false allies undermine the revolutionary movement, exploiting its momentum for personal or bourgeois interests. Pseudo-revolutionaries disregard theory, while opportunists sacrifice progress for short-term gains. Those who betray socialism must be exposed and condemned as traitors, as their actions contradict fundamental socialist principles. Moreover, imperialist powers bribe sections of the proletariat, creating divisions within the working class, as seen in the British working class. Some individuals also masquerade as revolutionaries to escape societal obligations while reaping benefits. Marxist-Leninists must vigilantly identify and counter opportunism, upholding revolutionary principles and maintaining class unity. By doing so, they protect the movement from false allies and ensure the proletariat remains committed to its historic mission.
*6. Marxist Approach to Social Change*
33. Breaking with economists was inevitable; Marxism was labeled obsolete to avoid its spread.
34. Owen achieved reforms, proving merchant/manufacturer unnecessary.
Marxist approach to social change emphasizes the necessity of breaking with bourgeois economic theories and ideologies. The ruling class labeled Marxism obsolete to prevent its spread and maintain capitalist dominance. However, revolutionary thinkers like Robert Owen demonstrated that socialist reforms can render merchants and manufacturers unnecessary, illustrating the potential for collective ownership and workers' control. By rejecting bourgeois economic frameworks and embracing Marxist theory, revolutionaries can develop a scientific understanding of class struggle and social change. This enables the proletariat to transcend reformist limitations and strive for revolutionary transformation, ultimately abolishing exploitative capitalist relations and establishing a socialist society.
*7. Revisionism and Its Implications*
35. Revisionism undermines socialist principles and goals.
36. Revisionism leads to betrayal and collaboration with bourgeoisie.
Revisionism, a manifestation of bourgeois influence within the socialist movement, undermines fundamental principles and goals, ultimately leading to betrayal and collaboration with the bourgeoisie. By diluting revolutionary ideology and accommodating capitalist interests, revisionists sabotage the proletariat's struggle for liberation. This compromise enables the ruling class to maintain dominance, frustrating the transition to socialism. Marxist-Leninists recognize revisionism as a treacherous threat, necessitating vigilant exposure and counteraction to preserve revolutionary integrity and ensure the working class remains committed to overthrowing capitalism.
*8. Critique of Gradualism and Incrementalism*
37. Socialist leaders who supported war betrayed socialism.
Gradualism and incrementalism, touted as pragmatic approaches to social change, undermine revolutionary transformation. Socialist leaders who supported imperialist wars betrayed socialism, illustrating the peril of compromising with capitalism. By embracing gradual, incremental reforms, revolutionaries risk abandoning the class struggle, tolerating exploitation, and reinforcing bourgeois hegemony. Marxist-Leninists reject gradualism, advocating instead for revolutionary action, proletarian internationalism, and the dictatorship of the proletariat to achieve socialism. This uncompromising stance ensures the working class remains committed to overthrowing capitalism, rather than perpetuating its existence through incremental reforms.
*9. Lessons from History*
38. The Second International's collapse revealed betrayal.
39. National tactics cannot justify support for war.
40. English writer Hobson defines imperialism
41. "Ultra-imperialism" proposes internationally united finance capital
42. Theory ignores existing economic realities
43. Kautsky's definition of imperialism one-sided
The collapse of the Second International exposed betrayal by socialist leaders who supported imperialist wars, highlighting the dangers of nationalist deviations. Historical analysis also reveals the limitations of theories like "ultra-imperialism" and Hobson's definition of imperialism. Specifically, Kautsky's definition of imperialism was one-sided, focusing on political and military aspects while neglecting the economic roots and exploitation inherent in capitalist imperialism. Marxist-Leninists must learn from these historical lessons, recognizing that national tactics cannot justify support for imperialist wars and that revolutionary theory must account for concrete economic realities.
Communist Movement, Party Building, Internationalism and Hive-mind Collectivism
A revolutionary Marxist-Leninist party is essential for effective class struggle, organizing independently to maintain revolutionary focus and prioritize international solidarity across nations and classes. This requires collective ownership and decision-making, transferring power from the bourgeoisie to the working class, and democratic centralism balancing decentralized decision-making with centralized leadership. Communist ethics emphasize inclusivity, resistance to non-socialist ideologies, and human emancipation. However, big tent utopian parties dilute socialist principles, compromising working-class interests through opportunism, reformism, and lack of ideological clarity. To achieve socialist revolution, Marxists must build a disciplined, principled movement, combating harmful ideologies, and fostering unity among workers and allies, recognizing the global struggle against capitalism and imperialism.
*1. Party Building and Organization*
1. Working party joined Liberal Party, becoming radical wing.
2. Socialists should organize outside the establishment 'left' party.
3. Separate entities maintain revolutionary focus.
4. Train amateurs to professional revolutionaries.
5. Circles must intertwine with revolutionary circles.
6. Intellectuals have a duty to share information.
7. Revolutionaries must use the press to their advantage.
8. Marxist organization crucial for effective class struggle.
9. Marxists lead the working-class movement, fighting for reforms while combating reformism.
10. Class organization through the party.
11. Unity among workers essential to resist reformist/bourgeois deception.
A revolutionary Marxist-Leninist party is essential for effective class struggle. Historically, working-class movements have been co-opted by bourgeois influences through establishment "left" parties. To avoid this, socialists must organize independently, maintaining revolutionary focus through separate entities and interconnected circles. Intellectuals have a duty to share knowledge, utilizing the press to spread revolutionary ideas. A Marxist organization is crucial for leading the working-class movement, fighting for reforms while combating reformism. Unity among workers is vital to resist reformist and bourgeois deception. By training amateurs to professional revolutionaries and organizing through the party, Marxists can build a strong, disciplined force capable of achieving socialist revolution.
*2. Internationalism and Solidarity*
1. European working class gained power in 1880s.
2. Germany led working-class movements in Europe.
3. True internationalism recognizes right to defend one's country.
4. Revolution must comprise all classes.
5. International significance of the Russian Revolution must be recognized.
6. Unite internationally.
7. Union against imperialism.
8. Importance of national liberation movements.
9. Common revolutionary front.
Marxist-Leninists emphasize the importance of international solidarity and unity among working-class movements. Historically, the European working class's growth in power in the 1880s and Germany's leadership in European working-class movements demonstrated the potential for collective action. True internationalism recognizes the right to defend one's country while advocating for global solidarity against imperialism. The Russian Revolution's international significance serves as a model for revolutionary movements. To achieve socialist revolution, unity across nations and classes is essential, requiring a common revolutionary front. National liberation movements are crucial in combating imperialism, and unity against imperialism is vital. Marxist-Leninists must prioritize international cooperation, recognizing that the struggle against capitalism and imperialism is global.
*3. Collective Ownership and Decision-Making*
1. Revolutionary proletariat must lead social revolution.
2. Co-operative societies benefit workers.
3. Labor bazaars promote social change.
4. Winning small peasants through co-operatives.
5. Peasantry as reserve of proletariat.
6. Emancipation through political and economic relations.
In a socialist society, collective ownership and decision-making are essential for achieving emancipation. The revolutionary proletariat must lead the social revolution, transferring power from the bourgeoisie to the working class. Cooperative societies and labor bazaars serve as transitional forms, benefiting workers and promoting social change. Winning over small peasants through cooperatives expands the revolutionary base, as the peasantry constitutes a reserve of proletariat forces. Emancipation requires transforming both political and economic relations, abolishing exploitation and establishing collective control over the means of production. This enables the masses to participate in decision-making, paving the way for a socialist, stateless society.
*4. Democratic Centralism and Party Discipline*
1. Break with opportunism is necessary.
2. Old division of socialists into opportunist/revolutionary trends.
3. Bureaucratization leads to loss of revolutionary spirit.
Marxist-Leninists emphasize the importance of democratic centralism and party discipline in maintaining revolutionary integrity. A break with opportunism is necessary to prevent the co-optation of socialist movements by bourgeois influences. Historically, socialists have divided into opportunist and revolutionary trends, with the latter prioritizing class struggle and socialist revolution. Bureaucratization, however, undermines revolutionary spirit, leading to authoritarianism and detachment from the working class. Democratic centralism balances decentralized decsion-making with centralized leadership, ensuring accountability, unity, and effective action.
*5. Communist Ethics and Values*
1. Socialism/communism isn't exclusive to "white man ideas."
2. Socialist ideology must resist non-Socialist ideology.
3. Workers must understand human rights violations and tyranny.
4. Socialists must speak to all who will listen.
5. Communism requiring mutual confidence.
6. Peasantry's revolutionary potential.
7. Human society begins when family labor creates surplus products.
Marxist-Leninists uphold communist ethics and values emphasizing inclusivity, resistance to non-socialist ideologies, and human emancipation. Socialism/communism is a universal aspiration, not limited to Western or "white man ideas." Socialists must combat harmful ideologies, recognizing human rights violations and tyranny under capitalism. They must engage with all willing listeners, fostering mutual confidence and unity among the working class and its allies, including the peasantry, whose revolutionary potential is significant. Communist society emerges when collective labor generates surplus products, transcending exploitative family and class relations.
*6. Big Tent Utopian Parties Hurt Movements*
1. Big tent utopian parties hurt movements.
2. Old division of socialists can be seen as warning against broad ineffective coalitions.
3. Reformist parties undermine revolutionary goals.
4. Broad coalitions dilute socialist principles.
5. Opportunistic alliances compromise working-class interests.
6. Petty-bourgeois influences weaken revolutionary resolve.
7. Lack of ideological clarity hinders effective action.
8. Electoralism diverts focus from revolutionary struggle.
9. Collaboration with bourgeoisie undermines socialist objectives.
10. Failure to criticize and purge opportunism weakens the movement.
11. Overemphasis on unity obscures ideological differences.
12. Neglecting Marxist-Leninist principles leads to reformism.
13. Failing to prioritize proletarian interests compromises revolution.
14. Inclusive, non-revolutionary parties maintain status quo.
15. Revolutionary movements require disciplined, principled leadership.
16. Irreconcilable differences within broad coalitions spark internal conflicts.
17. Failure to address ideological rifts leads to infighting, weakening the movement.
Big tent utopian parties can be detrimental to revolutionary movements, diluting socialist principles and compromising working-class interests. This occurs when unity and inclusivity are prioritized over ideological clarity, leading to internal conflicts and ineffective action. From a Marxist-Leninist perspective, broad coalitions can undermine revolutionary goals by incorporating petty-bourgeois influences and opportunistic alliances that weaken revolutionary resolve. Key concerns include lack of ideological clarity, compromised working-class interests, reformism, and internal conflicts. Effective alternatives emphasize disciplined, principled leadership and focused coalitions built around shared goals and principles.
Historical Development of Marxism, Primitive and Indigenous Socialism-Communism, and Practice
The historical development of Marxist thought is deeply rooted in the early socialist and communist movements, which laid the groundwork for the emergence of scientific socialism. This foundational framework has been shaped by the development of Marxist theory, integrating dialectical materialism and class struggle. The inherent socialist principles in indigenous and primitive societies demonstrate that collective ownership and cooperation are natural and historically precedent. Throughout history, socialist-communist practices have been informed by lessons from past movements, non-Western socialist traditions, and the challenges faced by revolutionary movements. These struggles have underscored the importance of proletarian leadership, international solidarity, and altruism in achieving communist revolution. As Marxist-Leninist thought continues to evolve, it remains a vital tool for understanding and challenging capitalism's inherent contradictions, ultimately guiding the pursuit of a communist future.
*1. Early Socialist and Communist Movements*
1. Ignoring utopian thinkers' works hinder progress
2. Overhaul of Second International's methods
3. Marx's Communist Manifesto defines scientific socialism
It's crucial to distinguish between scientific socialism and utopian socialism. The early socialist movements laid the groundwork, but utopian thinkers' unrealistic ideas hindered progress, and the Second International's methods needed overhaul due to their failure to address imperialism and class struggle. In contrast, Marx's Communist Manifesto (1848) provided a revolutionary breakthrough, defining scientific socialism and outlining the inevitable collapse of capitalism. Marx's work emphasized the necessity of proletariat-led revolution and the dictatorship of the proletariat, guiding Marxist-Leninist thought and action in struggles against capitalism and imperialism.
*2. Development of Marxist Theory, Experiment, and Practice*
4. Feuerbach's materialism built upon Hegel's work, prioritizing materialism
5. Feuerbach failed to fully overcome idealism
6. Feuerbach neglected historical role of moral evil and class antagonisms
7. Feuerbach failed to recognize the secular basis's self-contradictions
8. Marxist theory integrates dialectical materialism
Marxist theory developed through critiques of existing ideologies. Ludwig Feuerbach's materialism built upon Hegel's work, prioritizing materialism, but ultimately failed to fully overcome idealism. Furthermore, Feuerbach neglected the historical role of moral evil and class antagonisms, and failed to recognize the self-contradictions inherent in secular bases. In response, Marxist theory integrated dialectical materialism, reconciling materialist philosophy with Hegel's dialectical method. Marx and Engels provided a comprehensive framework for understanding historical development, class struggle, and the inevitability of socialist revolution.
*3. Indigenous and Primitive Socialist-Communist Societies*
9. Primitiveness is connected to economism
10. Materialism's history begins with basic needs production/distribution
11. Communal ownership in primitive societies precedes private property
12. All indigenous peoples and societies were some form of socialist
13. Shared resources and collective labor characterized primitive societies
It becomes clear that socialist principles have been inherent in human societies from the beginning. Primitiveness is closely tied to economism, with material needs driving social organization. The history of materialism begins with the production and distribution of basic necessities, illustrating the fundamental role of economic relationships. Communal ownership and shared resources characterized primitive societies, preceding the emergence of private property. In fact, all indigenous peoples and societies exhibited some form of socialist organization, with collective labor and shared resources being the norm. These primitive socialist societies demonstrate that collective ownership and cooperation are not only viable but also natural and historically precedent, contradicting capitalist notions of inherent individualism.
*4. Historical Examples of Socialist-Communist Practice and Relevance*
14. The war marked the beginning of revolutionary action
15. Revolutionary situations arise from crises
16. Liquidationism in Russia represented reformism
17. Monopolist associations divided home markets
18. Semi-colonial states represented transitional forms
19. Formally independent countries financially dependent
20. Protected dependence exemplified by Portugal-Britain
21. Monopoly characterizes latest phase of capitalist development
22. Monopoly development began in 1860s
23. Cartels developed during 1870s international depression
24. Late 19th century marked significant shift in capitalism
25. England was the first capitalist country
Various events and phenomena demonstrate the inevitability of socialist revolution. The war marked the beginning of revolutionary action, as crises often precipitate revolutionary situations. However, reformist tendencies, such as liquidationism in Russia, undermined socialist principles. Conversely, monopolist associations and cartels, emerging in the 1860s and consolidated during the 1870s international depression, exemplified the latest phase of capitalist development. Semi-colonial states and formally independent countries, financially dependent on imperial powers, illustrated transitional forms of capitalist domination. The Portugal-Britain relationship exemplified protected dependence. Notably, England, the first capitalist country, pioneered this system. The late 19th century marked a significant shift in capitalism, characterized by monopoly and imperialism, creating fertile ground for socialist revolutions.
*5. Lessons from Historical Socialist-Communist Movements and Applications*
26. Historical development shapes socialist strategies
27. Proletariat must lead socialist revolution
28. Socialist revolutions require international solidarity
Historical development profoundly shapes socialist strategies, necessitating adaptability and contextual understanding. Recognizing this, socialist movements must prioritize the proletariat's leading role in revolution, as the proletariat's interests align with the overthrow of capitalist exploitation. Furthermore, socialist revolutions require international solidarity, transcending national borders to unite workers against global capitalism. Effective socialist strategy thus integrates historical analysis, proletarian leadership, and international cooperation to achieve revolutionary victory.
*6. Influences on Marxist Thought*
30. Various economists' ideas are misrepresented
31. Quesnay's Tableau économique pioneers economic circulation
32. Money stimulates economic ideas
33. Technical revolutions lead to speculation
34. Marx and Engels observe connection between opportunism and imperialism
35. Hegel's dialectics influences Marxist methodology
Several key figures and concepts stand out. Contrary to popular interpretations, various economists' ideas have been misrepresented, often obscuring their genuine contributions. Notably, François Quesnay's Tableau économique pioneered the concept of economic circulation, while the emergence of money stimulated new economic ideas. Technical revolutions, meanwhile, have consistently led to speculation and instability. Marx and Engels astutely observed the connection between opportunism and imperialism, recognizing how capitalist expansion fosters inequality. Furthermore, Hegel's dialectical methodology profoundly influenced Marxist thought, enabling Marx to synthesize materialism and dialectics into a cohesive, revolutionary framework.
*7. Non-Western Socialist-Communist Traditions*
36. Lenin's theories applied in Asian and African revolutions
37. Socialist movements in Latin America challenge imperialism
38. African Socialism emphasizes communal ownership
39. Socialist movements in Asia incorporate national liberation
Diverse regional experiences have enriched Marxist-Leninist thought and practice. Lenin's theories were successfully applied in Asian and African revolutions, demonstrating their universal relevance. Socialist movements in Latin America challenged imperialism, often blending Marxist principles with local struggles. African Socialism emphasized communal ownership, drawing on indigenous traditions. Moreover, socialist movements in Asia incorporated national liberation, recognizing the imperative of anti-imperialist struggle in achieving socialist revolution. These non-Western experiences have contributed significantly to the global socialist movement, illustrating the adaptability and resilience of Marxist-Leninist principles.
*8. Revolutionary Movements and Socialist-Communist Applications*
40. Vanguard party necessary for successful revolution
41. Mass mobilization essential for revolutionary victory
42. The war marked the beginning of revolutionary action
With revolutionary movements and socialist-communist applications, key strategic principles emerge. A vanguard party, composed of committed revolutionaries, is necessary for successful revolution, providing leadership and direction. Mass mobilization is equally essential, rallying broad popular support for revolutionary victory. Historical experience shows that wars often mark the beginning of revolutionary action, as crises galvanize opposition and spark transformative change. Effective revolutionary movements integrate these elements, harnessing the energy of the masses and the guidance of a vanguard party to achieve socialist revolution.
*9. Challenges and Setbacks in Socialist-Communist History*
1. Liquidationism in Russia represented reformism
2. Revisionism undermines socialist principles
3. Imperialism fuels counter-revolutionary movements
4. Bourgeois influence corrupts socialist movements
Liquidationism in Russia exemplified reformism's limitations, highlighting the dangers of compromising revolutionary principles. Revisionism, meanwhile, has consistently undermined socialist principles, diluting Marxist-Leninist ideology and accommodating capitalist interests. External forces, notably imperialism, have fueled counter-revolutionary movements, seeking to restore capitalist dominance. Furthermore, bourgeois influence has corrupted socialist movements from within, leading to ideological deviations and class collaboration. Recognizing these challenges is crucial for strengthening socialist movements, fortifying revolutionary resolve, and ultimately achieving proletarian victory.
*10. Evolving Relevance of Marxist Theory in Modern Times*
1. Historical development shapes socialist strategies
2. Emergence of new capitalism in Europe
3. History of monopolies divided into three stages
4. Neoliberalism intensifies class struggle
5. Globalization increases economic interdependence
Historical development continually shapes socialist strategies, necessitating adaptability and contextual understanding. The emergence of new capitalist forms in Europe and elsewhere has revitalized Marxist analysis. The history of monopolies can be divided into three stages, illuminating the dynamic nature of capitalist development. Furthermore, neoliberalism has intensified class struggle, exacerbating inequality and exploitation. Globalization has increased economic interdependence, creating new conditions for international solidarity and proletarian unity. Amidst these shifts, Marxist theory remains a vital tool for understanding and challenging capitalism's inherent contradictions.
*11. Hive-mind Collectivism and Collective Decision-Making*
1. Primitiveness is connected to economism
2. Materialism's history begins with basic needs production/distribution
3. Collective ownership ensures equal distribution
4. Cooperative labor enhances social cohesion
5. Hive-mind collectivism promotes efficient decision making
With hive-mind collectivism and collective decision-making, principles of primitive socialism and materialism provide valuable insights. Primitiveness is closely tied to economism, where basic needs drive social organization. Materialism's history begins with the production and distribution of essential resources, highlighting the fundamental role of economic relationships. Collective ownership ensures equal distribution, eliminating exploitation and fostering cooperation. Cooperative labor enhances social cohesion, promoting mutual support and shared responsibility. Moreover, hive-mind collectivism – where individuals prioritize the collective interest – promotes efficient decision-making, leveraging collective intelligence and expertise. This approach optimizes resource allocation, adapts to changing circumstances, and ultimately strengthens the collective.
*12. Altruism: Authority, Duty, and Obligation*
1. Socialist morality prioritizes collective interest
2. Proletarian internationalism transcends national borders
3. Communist ideology guides revolutionary action
4. Selfless sacrifice necessary for revolutionary success
5. Communist society are altruistic prioritizing the members of the community over the individual
Socialist morality prioritizes the collective interest, fostering a sense of duty and obligation to the community. Proletarian internationalism transcends national borders, recognizing the shared struggles and solidarity of workers worldwide. Guided by communist ideology, revolutionary action requires selfless sacrifice, putting the needs of the many above personal interests. Ultimately, communist societies strive for altruism, prioritizing the well-being of the community over individual desires, and cultivating an environment where collective prosperity and happiness are the primary goals.
The historical development of Marxist thought is deeply rooted in the early socialist and communist movements, which laid the groundwork for the emergence of scientific socialism. This foundational framework has been shaped by the development of Marxist theory, integrating dialectical materialism and class struggle. The inherent socialist principles in indigenous and primitive societies demonstrate that collective ownership and cooperation are natural and historically precedent. Throughout history, socialist-communist practices have been informed by lessons from past movements, non-Western socialist traditions, and the challenges faced by revolutionary movements. These struggles have underscored the importance of proletarian leadership, international solidarity, and altruism in achieving communist revolution. As Marxist-Leninist thought continues to evolve, it remains a vital tool for understanding and challenging capitalism's inherent contradictions, ultimately guiding the pursuit of a communist future.
*1. Early Socialist and Communist Movements*
1. Ignoring utopian thinkers' works hinder progress
2. Overhaul of Second International's methods
3. Marx's Communist Manifesto defines scientific socialism
It's crucial to distinguish between scientific socialism and utopian socialism. The early socialist movements laid the groundwork, but utopian thinkers' unrealistic ideas hindered progress, and the Second International's methods needed overhaul due to their failure to address imperialism and class struggle. In contrast, Marx's Communist Manifesto (1848) provided a revolutionary breakthrough, defining scientific socialism and outlining the inevitable collapse of capitalism. Marx's work emphasized the necessity of proletariat-led revolution and the dictatorship of the proletariat, guiding Marxist-Leninist thought and action in struggles against capitalism and imperialism.
*2. Development of Marxist Theory, Experiment, and Practice*
4. Feuerbach's materialism built upon Hegel's work, prioritizing materialism
5. Feuerbach failed to fully overcome idealism
6. Feuerbach neglected historical role of moral evil and class antagonisms
7. Feuerbach failed to recognize the secular basis's self-contradictions
8. Marxist theory integrates dialectical materialism
Marxist theory developed through critiques of existing ideologies. Ludwig Feuerbach's materialism built upon Hegel's work, prioritizing materialism, but ultimately failed to fully overcome idealism. Furthermore, Feuerbach neglected the historical role of moral evil and class antagonisms, and failed to recognize the self-contradictions inherent in secular bases. In response, Marxist theory integrated dialectical materialism, reconciling materialist philosophy with Hegel's dialectical method. Marx and Engels provided a comprehensive framework for understanding historical development, class struggle, and the inevitability of socialist revolution.
*3. Indigenous and Primitive Socialist-Communist Societies*
9. Primitiveness is connected to economism
10. Materialism's history begins with basic needs production/distribution
11. Communal ownership in primitive societies precedes private property
12. All indigenous peoples and societies were some form of socialist
13. Shared resources and collective labor characterized primitive societies
It becomes clear that socialist principles have been inherent in human societies from the beginning. Primitiveness is closely tied to economism, with material needs driving social organization. The history of materialism begins with the production and distribution of basic necessities, illustrating the fundamental role of economic relationships. Communal ownership and shared resources characterized primitive societies, preceding the emergence of private property. In fact, all indigenous peoples and societies exhibited some form of socialist organization, with collective labor and shared resources being the norm. These primitive socialist societies demonstrate that collective ownership and cooperation are not only viable but also natural and historically precedent, contradicting capitalist notions of inherent individualism.
*4. Historical Examples of Socialist-Communist Practice and Relevance*
14. The war marked the beginning of revolutionary action
15. Revolutionary situations arise from crises
16. Liquidationism in Russia represented reformism
17. Monopolist associations divided home markets
18. Semi-colonial states represented transitional forms
19. Formally independent countries financially dependent
20. Protected dependence exemplified by Portugal-Britain
21. Monopoly characterizes latest phase of capitalist development
22. Monopoly development began in 1860s
23. Cartels developed during 1870s international depression
24. Late 19th century marked significant shift in capitalism
25. England was the first capitalist country
Various events and phenomena demonstrate the inevitability of socialist revolution. The war marked the beginning of revolutionary action, as crises often precipitate revolutionary situations. However, reformist tendencies, such as liquidationism in Russia, undermined socialist principles. Conversely, monopolist associations and cartels, emerging in the 1860s and consolidated during the 1870s international depression, exemplified the latest phase of capitalist development. Semi-colonial states and formally independent countries, financially dependent on imperial powers, illustrated transitional forms of capitalist domination. The Portugal-Britain relationship exemplified protected dependence. Notably, England, the first capitalist country, pioneered this system. The late 19th century marked a significant shift in capitalism, characterized by monopoly and imperialism, creating fertile ground for socialist revolutions.
*5. Lessons from Historical Socialist-Communist Movements and Applications*
26. Historical development shapes socialist strategies
27. Proletariat must lead socialist revolution
28. Socialist revolutions require international solidarity
Historical development profoundly shapes socialist strategies, necessitating adaptability and contextual understanding. Recognizing this, socialist movements must prioritize the proletariat's leading role in revolution, as the proletariat's interests align with the overthrow of capitalist exploitation. Furthermore, socialist revolutions require international solidarity, transcending national borders to unite workers against global capitalism. Effective socialist strategy thus integrates historical analysis, proletarian leadership, and international cooperation to achieve revolutionary victory.
*6. Influences on Marxist Thought*
30. Various economists' ideas are misrepresented
31. Quesnay's Tableau économique pioneers economic circulation
32. Money stimulates economic ideas
33. Technical revolutions lead to speculation
34. Marx and Engels observe connection between opportunism and imperialism
35. Hegel's dialectics influences Marxist methodology
Several key figures and concepts stand out. Contrary to popular interpretations, various economists' ideas have been misrepresented, often obscuring their genuine contributions. Notably, François Quesnay's Tableau économique pioneered the concept of economic circulation, while the emergence of money stimulated new economic ideas. Technical revolutions, meanwhile, have consistently led to speculation and instability. Marx and Engels astutely observed the connection between opportunism and imperialism, recognizing how capitalist expansion fosters inequality. Furthermore, Hegel's dialectical methodology profoundly influenced Marxist thought, enabling Marx to synthesize materialism and dialectics into a cohesive, revolutionary framework.
*7. Non-Western Socialist-Communist Traditions*
36. Lenin's theories applied in Asian and African revolutions
37. Socialist movements in Latin America challenge imperialism
38. African Socialism emphasizes communal ownership
39. Socialist movements in Asia incorporate national liberation
Diverse regional experiences have enriched Marxist-Leninist thought and practice. Lenin's theories were successfully applied in Asian and African revolutions, demonstrating their universal relevance. Socialist movements in Latin America challenged imperialism, often blending Marxist principles with local struggles. African Socialism emphasized communal ownership, drawing on indigenous traditions. Moreover, socialist movements in Asia incorporated national liberation, recognizing the imperative of anti-imperialist struggle in achieving socialist revolution. These non-Western experiences have contributed significantly to the global socialist movement, illustrating the adaptability and resilience of Marxist-Leninist principles.
*8. Revolutionary Movements and Socialist-Communist Applications*
40. Vanguard party necessary for successful revolution
41. Mass mobilization essential for revolutionary victory
42. The war marked the beginning of revolutionary action
With revolutionary movements and socialist-communist applications, key strategic principles emerge. A vanguard party, composed of committed revolutionaries, is necessary for successful revolution, providing leadership and direction. Mass mobilization is equally essential, rallying broad popular support for revolutionary victory. Historical experience shows that wars often mark the beginning of revolutionary action, as crises galvanize opposition and spark transformative change. Effective revolutionary movements integrate these elements, harnessing the energy of the masses and the guidance of a vanguard party to achieve socialist revolution.
*9. Challenges and Setbacks in Socialist-Communist History*
1. Liquidationism in Russia represented reformism
2. Revisionism undermines socialist principles
3. Imperialism fuels counter-revolutionary movements
4. Bourgeois influence corrupts socialist movements
Liquidationism in Russia exemplified reformism's limitations, highlighting the dangers of compromising revolutionary principles. Revisionism, meanwhile, has consistently undermined socialist principles, diluting Marxist-Leninist ideology and accommodating capitalist interests. External forces, notably imperialism, have fueled counter-revolutionary movements, seeking to restore capitalist dominance. Furthermore, bourgeois influence has corrupted socialist movements from within, leading to ideological deviations and class collaboration. Recognizing these challenges is crucial for strengthening socialist movements, fortifying revolutionary resolve, and ultimately achieving proletarian victory.
*10. Evolving Relevance of Marxist Theory in Modern Times*
1. Historical development shapes socialist strategies
2. Emergence of new capitalism in Europe
3. History of monopolies divided into three stages
4. Neoliberalism intensifies class struggle
5. Globalization increases economic interdependence
Historical development continually shapes socialist strategies, necessitating adaptability and contextual understanding. The emergence of new capitalist forms in Europe and elsewhere has revitalized Marxist analysis. The history of monopolies can be divided into three stages, illuminating the dynamic nature of capitalist development. Furthermore, neoliberalism has intensified class struggle, exacerbating inequality and exploitation. Globalization has increased economic interdependence, creating new conditions for international solidarity and proletarian unity. Amidst these shifts, Marxist theory remains a vital tool for understanding and challenging capitalism's inherent contradictions.
*11. Hive-mind Collectivism and Collective Decision-Making*
1. Primitiveness is connected to economism
2. Materialism's history begins with basic needs production/distribution
3. Collective ownership ensures equal distribution
4. Cooperative labor enhances social cohesion
5. Hive-mind collectivism promotes efficient decision making
With hive-mind collectivism and collective decision-making, principles of primitive socialism and materialism provide valuable insights. Primitiveness is closely tied to economism, where basic needs drive social organization. Materialism's history begins with the production and distribution of essential resources, highlighting the fundamental role of economic relationships. Collective ownership ensures equal distribution, eliminating exploitation and fostering cooperation. Cooperative labor enhances social cohesion, promoting mutual support and shared responsibility. Moreover, hive-mind collectivism – where individuals prioritize the collective interest – promotes efficient decision-making, leveraging collective intelligence and expertise. This approach optimizes resource allocation, adapts to changing circumstances, and ultimately strengthens the collective.
*12. Altruism: Authority, Duty, and Obligation*
1. Socialist morality prioritizes collective interest
2. Proletarian internationalism transcends national borders
3. Communist ideology guides revolutionary action
4. Selfless sacrifice necessary for revolutionary success
5. Communist society are altruistic prioritizing the members of the community over the individual
Socialist morality prioritizes the collective interest, fostering a sense of duty and obligation to the community. Proletarian internationalism transcends national borders, recognizing the shared struggles and solidarity of workers worldwide. Guided by communist ideology, revolutionary action requires selfless sacrifice, putting the needs of the many above personal interests. Ultimately, communist societies strive for altruism, prioritizing the well-being of the community over individual desires, and cultivating an environment where collective prosperity and happiness are the primary goals.
Opposing Ideologies, False Friends and Opportunists
Socialist and communist movements face numerous challenges from opposing ideologies, false friends, and opportunists. Marxist-Leninists confronted anarchism, menshevism, liberalism, conservatism, fascism, and reformism, recognizing these forces as obstacles to proletarian unity and revolutionary consciousness. Opportunists like Kautsky and Dühring undermined proletarian struggle by distorting Marxist theory and serving bourgeois interests. To counter these threats, Marxist-Leninists developed strategies emphasizing ideological clarity, democratic centralism, and relentless struggle against opportunism. By understanding the ideological foundations of capitalism and the mentality that sustains it, Marxist-Leninists can effectively challenge bourgeois hegemony, unite the working class, and achieve revolutionary victory.
*1. Understanding Opposing Ideologies&
1. Anarchists achieve stateless society after social change.
2. Mensheviks' policy maintained fighting strength of army, opposing revolution.
3. Dühring's socialism deviates from core principles.
4. Dühring's treatment of wages rewords Marx's concepts.
5. Dühring's "natural laws" lack originality and depth.
6. Dühring misunderstands Quesnay's premises.
7. Dühring misunderstands Marx's concept of skilled labor.
8. Imperialism's contradictions obscured by opportunists and bourgeois governments.
Various socialist and communist movements emerged, some of which deviated from Marxist principles. Anarchists sought a stateless society without revolutionary transition, while Mensheviks compromised with bourgeois forces, undermining revolutionary momentum. Eugen Dühring's socialist theories, critiqued by Friedrich Engels, distorted Marxist concepts on wages, "natural laws," and skilled labor, revealing his lack of understanding of dialectical materialism. Moreover, opportunists and bourgeois governments obscured imperialism's inherent contradictions, hindering proletarian unity. Marxist-Leninists must understand these opposing ideologies to counter revisionism, defend revolutionary theory, and unite the working class against imperialism and bourgeois influence.
*2. Indoctrinated Masses: Mechanisms of Social Control*
25. Pacifists, Conservative Socialists, Reactionaries, Institutionalists, Conformists, Traditionalists, Establishmentarians, are loyalists and not to be trusted.
Movements faced opposition from various groups serving bourgeois interests. Pacifists, conservative socialists, reactionaries, institutionalists, conformists, traditionalists, and establishmentarians acted as loyalists to the ruling class, undermining revolutionary momentum. These groups employed social control mechanisms, such as ideological manipulation and coercion, to maintain the status quo. Marxist-Leninists recognize these forces as obstacles to proletarian unity and revolutionary consciousness, and must expose their counter-revolutionary nature to awaken the masses to the true interests of the working class.
*3. Critique of Right-Wing Ideologies: Conservatism, Liberalism, and Beyond*
36. No alliance with liberal, progressives, democratic socialists, or social democratic ideologies.
Socialist and communist movements confronted various right-wing ideologies that obscured the class struggle and undermined revolutionary momentum. Liberalism, progressivism, democratic socialism, and social democracy presented themselves as alternatives to revolutionary socialism, but ultimately served bourgeois interests. These ideologies perpetuated illusions about gradual reform and class collaboration, diverting the working class from its revolutionary tasks. Marxist-Leninists reject alliances with such ideologies, recognizing that their incremental reforms only reinforce the capitalist system. Instead, Marxist-Leninists advocate for revolutionary overthrow of the bourgeoisie and the establishment of a dictatorship of the proletariat.
*4. Liberalism and Social-Democracy: Analysis and Critique*
36. No alliance with liberal, progressives, democratic socialists, or social democratic ideologies.
Ideological challenges came from liberalism and social-democracy. These ideologies promised gradual reform and class collaboration, obscuring the fundamental contradictions between the proletariat and bourgeoisie. Marxist-Leninists critique liberalism and social-democracy as bourgeois-serving ideologies that undermine revolutionary consciousness and maintain capitalist hegemony. By rejecting alliances with these ideologies, Marxist-Leninists affirm the necessity of revolutionary struggle, class independence, and the dictatorship of the proletariat.
*5. Conservatism and Reactionary Politics*
25. Pacifists, Conservative Socialists, Reactionaries, Institutionalists, Conformists, Traditionalists, Establishmentarians, are loyalists and not to be trusted.
Conservatism and reactionary politics emerged as formidable obstacles to revolutionary progress. Conservative socialists, pacifists, reactionaries, institutionalists, conformists, traditionalists, and establishmentarians served bourgeois interests, undermining proletarian unity and revolutionary momentum. Marxist-Leninists recognize these forces as loyalists to the ruling class, employing tactics like reformism, nationalism, and religious dogma to maintain capitalist hegemony. To combat these counter-revolutionary elements, Marxist-Leninists must expose their ideological deception, foster revolutionary consciousness, and mobilize the working class against bourgeois influence.
*6. Fascism, Nationalism, and Authoritarianism*
25. Pacifists, Conservative Socialists, Reactionaries, Institutionalists, Conformists, Traditionalists, Establishmentarians, are loyalists and not to be trusted.
Fascism, nationalism, and authoritarianism emerged as counter-revolutionary forces seeking to crush proletarian unity and revolutionary momentum. These ideologies, often masked as patriotic or traditional values, served bourgeois interests by dividing the working class and reinforcing capitalist hegemony. Marxist-Leninists recognize pacifists, conservative socialists, reactionaries, institutionalists, conformists, traditionalists, and establishmentarians as loyalists to the ruling class, undermining revolutionary struggle. To combat these forces, Marxist-Leninists must expose their ideological deception, promote proletarian internationalism, and mobilize the working class against fascist, nationalist, and authoritarian threats.
*7. False Friends, Opportunists, and Traitors Within*
37. Opportunists oppose civil war.
38. Kautsky served bourgeoisie interests.
39. Opportunists fail to recognize primitiveness.
40. Amateurs cannot handle political tasks.
41. Spontaneous people hinder movements.
42. Support pseudos only when beneficial.
43. Dühring attributes economic phenomena to force.
False friends, opportunists, and traitors within the movement posed significant threats to revolutionary progress. Opportunists like Kautsky and Dühring undermined proletarian struggle by opposing civil war, serving bourgeois interests, and distorting Marxist theory. They failed to recognize the primitive state of productive forces and the necessity of revolutionary transformation. Amateurish and spontaneous approaches hindered movement effectiveness. Marxist-Leninists must identify and counter these internal threats, upholding revolutionary principles, and promoting ideological clarity and discipline.
*8. Internal Conflict Resolution: Infighting, and Irreconcilable Differences*
38. Prioritizing legality sacrifices proletarian rights.
39. Rejection of spontaneity theory.
40. Purging opportunism
Internal conflicts arose from irreconcilable differences between revolutionaries and opportunists. Prioritizing legality over revolutionary goals sacrificed proletarian rights, while spontaneity theory undermined disciplined action. Marxist-Leninists recognized the necessity of not only in calling but purging opportunism, upholding ideological clarity, and resolving internal conflicts through democratic centralism. This ensured the movement's integrity, unified the proletariat, and advanced the revolutionary struggle.
*9. Strategies for Countering Opposing Ideologies*
54. Labor movement must recognize imperialism's parasitic nature.
55. Relentless struggle against opportunism/for educating masses.
56. Masses can only be won over through struggle.
57. Imperialism/ opportunism interconnected.
58. Recognizing imperialism's parasitic nature is crucial.
59. Unity among workers is essential to resist reformist and bourgeois deception.
Effective strategies were developed to counter opposing ideologies. Marxist-Leninists recognized the imperative of exposing imperialism's parasitic nature and its interconnection with opportunism. To achieve revolutionary victory, the labor movement must engage in relentless struggle against opportunism, educate the masses, and unite workers across national lines. This requires acknowledging that masses can only be won over through active struggle, not reformist compromises. Unity among workers is crucial to resist bourgeois deception and reformist illusions.
*10. The Ideological Foundations of Capitalism and the Mentality that Sustains it*
23. Reformist influence weakens workers' movement.
24. Critically evaluating reformist arguments/actions.
25. Reformist arguments divert attention from revolutionary goals.
26. Material world is the only reality.
27. Consciousness and thinking are products of the brain.
28. Dühring separates wealth into production and distribution.
29. Production wealth is good, distribution wealth is bad.
30. Monopolist associations resort to methods like stopping supplies.
Marxist-Leninists critiqued the ideological foundations of capitalism, exposing reformism's debilitating influence on the workers' movement. Reformist arguments, diverting attention from revolutionary goals, obscured the material reality of class struggle. Marxist-Leninists assert that consciousness arises from material conditions, not idealist abstractions. Eugen Dühring's flawed distinctions between production and distribution wealth were rejected, as was his failure to recognize monopolist associations' exploitative tactics. By understanding capitalism's ideological underpinnings and the reformist mentality that sustains it, Marxist-Leninists can effectively challenge bourgeois hegemony.
Authoritarian Collective Well-Being versus Anti-Authority Individualism
In the struggle against capitalist exploitation, Marxist-Leninists emphasize the necessity of authoritarian collective well-being over anti-authority individualism. Recognizing the inherent contradictions between individual freedom and collective emancipation, Marxist-Leninists advocate for social regulation, collective ownership, and democratic centralism. By balancing individual and collective interests, communist movements seek to overcome bourgeois domination, spontaneity, and division of labor. Through rigorous theory, mass participation, and strategic action, Marxist-Leninists aim to establish a socialist society, prioritizing human well-being, and ultimately achieving a classless, stateless society.
*1. Understanding Authoritarianism and Individualism*
1. Social regulation of production/distribution is necessary.
2. Spontaneity and trade unionism lead to bourgeois domination.
3. Broad democracy hinders revolutionary movements.
Marxist-Leninists recognized the imperative of challenging bourgeois dominance and fostering revolutionary consciousness. Crucial to this endeavor was understanding the pitfalls of spontaneity and trade unionism, which inevitably succumb to bourgeois control, and the limitations of broad democracy, which dilutes revolutionary fervor. Instead, Marxist-Leninists advocated for social regulation of production and distribution, emphasizing the necessity of authoritarian measures to safeguard the collective interests of the proletariat. By acknowledging the inherent contradictions between individual freedom and collective well-being, Marxist-Leninists sought to build a vanguard movement capable of navigating the complexities of class struggle and ultimately achieving socialist revolution.
*2. Importance of Collective Well-Being*
1. Social regulation of production/distribution is necessary.
2. Workers are too busy for extensive involvement.
3. Active participation is essential for membership.
4. Public health and production require unity.
5. Economic communes require careful planning.
6. Develop all faculties, not just specialization.
The paramount importance of collective well-being in achieving true social emancipation. Recognizing the alienating effects of capitalist exploitation, Marxist-Leninists advocated for social regulation of production and distribution to prioritize the needs of the many over individual interests. To foster revolutionary consciousness, active participation and collective ownership were deemed essential, while acknowledging the limitations of workers' time and energy. Furthermore, unity in public health and production, carefully planned economic communes, and holistic development of human faculties beyond specialization were seen as crucial components of a socialist society.
*3. Critique of Anti-Authority Individualism*
1. Liberal minds project guilt onto Marxists.
2. Accumulation leads to private wealth, exploitation, and property.
3. Eternal peace is unattainable under capitalist systems.
4. The abstract, isolated human individual is a flawed concept.
Movements critiqued anti-authority individualism as a bourgeois facade masking exploitation. They argued that liberal ideologies shift blame onto Marxists while obscuring capitalism's inherent flaws. The accumulation of wealth under capitalism necessarily entails exploitation, private property, and class divisions. Moreover, the notion of eternal peace within capitalist systems is an illusion, as imperialism and competition inevitably fuel conflict. Marxist-Leninists also rejected the liberal concept of the isolated individual, instead emphasizing the interconnectedness of human experience and the need for collective action to overcome alienation and achieve socialist emancipation.
*4. Balancing Individual Freedom and Collective Good*
1. Develop revolutionary leaders
2. Encourage mass participation
3. Continuously evaluate and adapt tactics
4. Focus on long-term goals
5. Education should develop all faculties.
6. Morality should prioritize human well-being
7. Revolutionary perspective in daily activities
8. Contradictions are resolved through struggle
9. Struggle of opposites leads to higher levels of development
Marxist-Leninists sought to balance individual freedom with the collective good, recognizing that true liberation requires the emancipation of the working class as a whole. To achieve this, they emphasized the importance of developing revolutionary leaders, encouraging mass participation, and continually adapting tactics to serve long-term goals. Education should foster holistic development, prioritizing human well-being over bourgeois morality. By integrating revolutionary perspectives into daily activities, Marxist-Leninists aimed to resolve contradictions through struggle, understanding that the dialectical interplay of opposing forces drives societal progress.
*5. Building Collective Well-Being through Authoritarian Means*
1. Consciousness and preparedness are vital for Social-Democracy.
2. Revolutionary movements require advanced theory and vanguard leadership.
3. Commercial calculation can inform communist principles.
4. Combining revolutionary sweep and efficiency
5. Avoiding narrow practicalism
6. American efficiency preventing empty schemes
Recognizing the necessity of authoritarian measures to achieve collective well-being. Communists stressed that successful revolutionary movements require a combination of advanced theoretical understanding, vanguard leadership, and preparedness. By incorporating commercial calculation and efficiency, communist principles could be effectively implemented. This approach allowed for the fusion of revolutionary sweep and practicality, avoiding narrow pragmatism and empty schematics. Inspired by American efficiency, Marxist-Leninists sought to streamline revolutionary efforts, ensuring a disciplined and organized transition to socialism.
*6. Collective Ownership and Decision-Making*
1. Study and reading material are crucial.
2. Production within communes must be addressed
3. Tribal communities practiced common land ownership.
Communists emphasized collective ownership and decision-making as essential to achieving socialist emancipation. Recognizing the importance of theoretical foundation, they stressed the need for rigorous study and engagement with revolutionary literature. Furthermore, they acknowledged the challenges of production within communal settings, seeking to establish equitable and efficient systems. Drawing inspiration from tribal communities' traditional practices of common land ownership, Marxist-Leninists sought to reclaim and redefine collective ownership, empowering the working class to control the means of production.
*7. Authoritarianism and Democracy*
1. Broad democracy hinders revolutionary movements.
2. Economics absorbs politics in socialist systems.
Marxist-Leninists critiqued the notion of broad democracy as a hindrance to revolutionary progress. They argued that unchecked democratic participation often dilutes revolutionary fervor, allowing bourgeois interests to prevail. In contrast, socialist systems prioritize economic transformation, recognizing that economics ultimately absorbs politics. By establishing a dictatorship of the proletariat, Marxist-Leninists sought to temporarily concentrate power, suppress counter-revolutionary elements, and facilitate the transition to a classless, stateless society.
*8. Individualism vs. Collectivism*
1. Spontaneity and trade unionism lead to bourgeois domination.
2. Liberal minds project guilt onto Marxists.
3. Abolish the separation of town and country.
Socialists highlighted the fundamental contradiction between individualism and collectivism. They argued that spontaneity and trade unionism, devoid of revolutionary consciousness, inevitably succumb to bourgeois control. Meanwhile, liberal ideologies shift blame onto Marxists, masking their own complicity in exploitation. To overcome these limitations, Marxist-Leninists advocated for the abolition of the town-country divide, integrating industrial and agricultural development to create a unified, socialist society.
*9. Balancing Individual and Collective Interests*
1. Encourage mass participation
2. Continuously evaluate and adapt tactics
3. Make practical compromises and maneuvers
4. Division of labor hinders production.
5. Modern industry makes division of labor unnecessary.
6. Practical work over phrasemongering
7. Technical improvement promoted through patent acquisition
Movements sought to balance individual and collective interests. They emphasized mass participation, tactical adaptability, and strategic compromises to achieve revolutionary goals. Recognizing the limitations of division of labor, Marxist-Leninists argued that modern industry renders it obsolete, enabling unified, efficient production. Prioritizing practical action over rhetoric, they promoted technical innovation through patent acquisition, fostering socialist development.
*10. Alternative Social Organizations*
1. Master all forms of social activity
2. Propaganda and agitation alone are insufficient
3. Consider national context
4. Socialists must speak to all who will listen
5. Revolutionaries must organize and act
6. Theory is crucial in the Social-Democratic movement
7. Language learning requires practical application.
8. Industrial crises result from over-production.
9. Commodity production governs producers.
10. Social systems should recognize class conflicts.
11. Equalization of human energies is unrealistic.
12. Metallic money can still function as real money.
13. Hoarding and usury can occur in communist systems
14. Value cannot be reduced to a simple measure.
15. Pure mathematics has validity independent of individual experience.
Communist movements envisioned alternative social organizations to overcome capitalist exploitation. They emphasized mastering various social activities, recognizing propaganda and agitation's limitations, and adapting to national contexts. Socialists must engage diverse audiences and organize revolutionary action, grounded in rigorous theory. Marxist-Leninists understood industrial crises stem from overproduction, commodity production dominates producers, and social systems must acknowledge class conflicts.
People seem to base their views of communism around two examples European Soviet Communism or Pre-colonial Indigenous societies. In the 21st century that has lead to division between Communists who recognize their European ancestry and those who deny their European bloodline. Because of this division, and the requests of those with Indigenous ancestry on turtle island, here is some Indigenous perspectives on communistic life, sovereignty, ancestral land claims, and land ownership in general.
Indigenous Wisdom and Unity
It's import to listen to Indigenous Americans, not Latin, Caucasian, African, Asian or any other minority. And to understand their opinions. I will share near 30 quotes from Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island, to show that these are indeed their perspectives, their views before this blog ends.
*Indigenous Knowledge and Perspectives*
1. Recognize indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and ancient cultures' egalitarianism, emphasizing interconnectedness and interdependence.
2. We are temporary caretakers of the earth, not owners; respect, protect, and promote balance, harmony, and peace with nature.
*Challenging Harmful Systems*
3. Challenge harmful ideologies and systems disregarding indigenous perspectives and earth's well-being.
4. Foster altruistic culture through unity, organization, collective action, and communal equality.
*Promoting Equality and Egalitarianism*
5. Oppose supreme power, authority, and control over others and the earth.
6. Promote equality, egalitarianism, and women's equality, recognizing ancient cultural values.
7. Acknowledge national rights, including indigenous rights, and equal claims and responsibilities to the earth.
*Alternative to Capitalism*
8. Reject capitalism's exploitative production mode, embracing cooperation and communal equality.
Indigenous wisdom emphasizes interconnectedness, interdependence, and egalitarianism, recognizing ancient cultures' harmonious relationship with nature. We are temporary caretakers, not owners, of the earth, and must respect, protect, and promote balance and harmony. This wisdom also fosters a collective consciousness, similar to a hive-mind, where individual well-being is intertwined with the well-being of the community and the natural world. Challenging harmful ideologies and systems, we must foster altruistic culture through unity, collective action, and communal equality. This requires opposing supreme power and authority, promoting equality, women's rights, and recognizing ancient cultural values. Acknowledging national and indigenous rights, we reject capitalism's exploitative production, embracing cooperation and communal equality. By embracing indigenous perspectives, we can create a more just and sustainable world, prioritizing earth's well-being and collective well-being.
Collective Ownership and Stewardship
*Holistic Perspective*
1. All living things are interconnected, interdependent, and one; strive for balance, harmony, and peace.
2. We are temporary caretakers of the earth, not owners; respect, protect, and preserve nature.
*Indigenous Recognition and Equality*
3. Recognize and honor indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and ancient cultures' egalitarianism.
4. Promote equality, egalitarianism, and collective responsibility, acknowledging women's equality.
*Transformative Action*
5. Challenge and transform harmful ideologies and systems exploiting people and the earth.
6. Foster altruistic culture through unity, organization, collective action, and cooperative ownership.
Collective ownership and stewardship emphasize interconnectedness, interdependence, and oneness among all living things, striving for balance, harmony, and peace. Recognizing our role as temporary caretakers, not owners, of the earth, we must respect, protect, and preserve nature. Honoring indigenous knowledge and perspectives, we promote equality, egalitarianism, and collective responsibility, acknowledging women's equality and challenging harmful ideologies. Ideologies like segregating humanity into tribal or ethnic nations, which prioritize themselves over humanity, creating division and hierarchical supremacy. Honoring indigenous knowledge and perspectives cultivates a hive-mind mentality, where individual well-being is inseparable from the well-being of the community and the natural world. By fostering an altruistic culture through unity, organization, collective action, and cooperative ownership, we transform exploitative systems and prioritize the well-being of people and the planet.
Hear the words, the voices from the Indigenous people, from the planet, from the hive mind.
Indigenous perspectives may differ from tribe to tribe and person to person but these are the views that I have heard during my 40+ years on this planet, that have been spoken for centuries, and they are the Indigenous views those who believe in oneness and collectivism should side with and support. I have underlined the key points to make sure people understand what they are saying, and what they are saying applies to everyone, including their people.
1. "We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors. We borrow it from our children." - Chief Seattle
2. "Humans merely share the earth. We can only protect the land, not own it." - Chief Seattle
3. "The earth does not belong to man. Man belongs to the earth. All things are connected like the blood that unites us all. Man did not weave the web of life. He is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself." - Chief Seattle
4. "We are guests on this land - nobody owns it." - Serena Mills
5. "We cannot claim ownership of the earth, for we are but temporary caretakers." - Wilma Mankiller
6. "No one has the right to claim ownership of the earth." - Taiaiake Alfred
7. "Our land is more valuable than your money. As long as the sun shines and the waters flow, this land will be here to give life to men and animals; therefore, we cannot sell this land. It was put here for us by the Great Spirit and we cannot sell it because it does not belong to us." - Crowfoot
8. “One does not sell the earth upon which the people walk” - Crazy Horse
9. "Man sometimes thinks he's been elevated to be the controller, the ruler, but he's not. He's only part of the whole. Man's job is not to exploit, but to oversee, to be a steward,. Man has responsibility, not power." - Oren Lyons
10. "Warriors are not what you think of as warriors. The warrior is not someone who fights, because no one has the right to take another life. The warrior, for us, is one who sacrifices himself for the good of others. His task is to take care of the elderly, the defenseless, those who cannot provide for themselves, and above all, the children, the future of humanity." - Sitting Bull
11. "It reminds the whole community that leadership is rooted not in power and authority, but in service and wisdom." - Robin Wall Kimmerer
12. "As Native Americans, we believe the Rainbow is a sign from the Spirit in all things: It is a sign of the union of all people, like one big family. The unity of all humanity, many tribes and peoples, is essential." - Thomas Banyacya
13. "All things are connected like the blood which unites one family." - Chief Seattle
14. "If the white man wants to live in peace with the Indian, he can live in peace. There need be no trouble. Treat all men alike. Give them all the same law. Give them all an even chance to live and grow. All men were made by the same Great Spirit Chief. They are all brothers. The earth is the mother of all people, and all people should have equal rights upon it. You might as well expect all rivers to run backward as that any man who was born a free man should be contented penned up and denied liberty to go where he pleases." - Chief Joseph of Nez Perce
15. "The first peace, which is the most important, is that which comes within the souls of people when they realize their relationship, their oneness with the universe and all its powers, and when they realize that at the center of the universe dwells the Great Spirit, and that this center is really everywhere. It is within each of us.
The universe is circles within circles, and everything is one circle. And all the circles are connected to each other. Each family is a circle, and those family circles connect with each other and make a community. And the community makes a circle where it lives on the Earth.
The community cares for that part of the Earth, but cares for it as a circle - which is to say in a cooperative and egalitarian way, where everybody is cared for, and everybody is respected. All things are our relatives; what we do to everything, we do to ourselves. All is really one.
Peace will come to the hearts of men when they realize their oneness with the Universe. It is everywhere." - Black Elk, Oglala Lakota (Sioux)
16. "Before our white brothers came to civilize us, we had no jails. Therefore, we had no criminals. You can't have criminals without a jail. We had no locks or keys, and so we had no thieves. If a man was so poor that he had no horse, tipi, or blanket, someone gave him these things. We were too uncivilized to set much value on personal belongings. We wanted to have things only in order to give them away. We had no money, and therefore a man's worth couldn't be measured by it. We had no written law, no attorneys or politicians, therefore we couldn't cheat. We really were in a bad way before the white men came, and I don't know how we managed to get along without these basic things which, we are told, are absolutely necessary to make a civilized society." - John Fire Lame Deer
17. "All red races are born Socialists, and most tribes carry out the communistic ideas to the letter. Amongst the Iroquois, it is considered disgraceful to have food if your neighbor has none. To be a creditable member of the nation, you must divide your possessions with your less fortunate fellows. I find it much the same amongst the Coast Indians, though they are less bitter in their hatred of the extremes of wealth and poverty than are the Eastern tribes.
Still, the very fact that they have preserved this legend, in which they liken avarice to a slimy sea-serpent, shows the trend of their ideas; shows, too, that an Indian is an Indian, no matter what his tribe, shows that he cannot, or will not, hoard money; shows that his native morals demand that the spirit of greed must be strangled at all costs." - Tekahionwake
18. "For tribal people, who see the world as a whole, the essence of our work is in its entirety. In a society where all are related, simple decisions require the approval of nearly everyone in that society. It is society as a whole, not merely a part of it, that must survive. This is the indigenous understanding. It is the understanding in a global sense. We are all indigenous people on this planet, and we have to reorganize to get along." - Rebecca Adamson
19. "The indigenous understanding has its basis in spirituality, in a recognition of the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living things, a holistic and balanced view of the world. All things are bound together. All things connect. What happens to the Earth happens to the children of the Earth. Humankind has not woven the web of life; we are but one thread. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves." - Rebecca Adamson
20. "A very great vision is needed, and the man who has it must follow it as the eagle seeks the deepest blue of the sky." - Crazy Horse
21. "Although wrongs have been done to me, I live in hope. I have not got two hearts. Now we are together again to make peace. My shame is as big as the earth, although I will do what my friends advise me to do. I once thought that I was the only man that persevered to be the friend of the white man, but since they have come and cleaned out our lodges, horses, and everything else, it is hard for me to believe white men anymore." - Chief Black Kettle
22. "I joined the Communist party because of poverty, because of mistreatment, because things had to change. I was a leader. Speaking to people made them see our sorrows. After so much struggle, even made the government cry." - Transito Araguaria
23. "Communism is the Horizon, Queer indigenous Feminism is the Way." - Nick Estes, The Red Nation
24. "I hope to contribute to a global warming of hearts and a climate change in human consciousness." - Q'orianka Kilcher
25. "We can effect real change by pushing ourselves to engage in conversations with each other. That's the goal for all of us, as professionals and community members, especially if we are in positions of power to create, change, and understanding. Because we are guests on this land - nobody owns it." - Serena Mills
26. "It's not so much about focusing on the omission or belonging and all of us having a right to a home, but rather about introducing non-indigenous people to this land's accurate confederate history and the importance of relationship to land, despite the dominant worldview owning the land. All we're asking you to do is to remember, and remember with us." - Serena Mills
27. "We have been given the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. So now, we bring our minds together as one, as we give greetings and thanks to each other as people. Now our minds are one." - Haudenosaunee Confederacy
28. "Then I was standing on the highest mountain of them all, and round about beneath me was the hoop of the world. And while I stood there, I saw more than I can tell, and I understood more than I saw, for I was seeing in a sacred manner the shapes of all things in the spirit, and the shape of all shapes as they must live together like one being. And I saw that the sacred hoop of my people was one of many hoops that made one circle, wide as daylight and as straight, and in the center grew one mighty flowering tree to shelter all the children of one mother and one father, and I saw that it was holy." - Black Elk
29. "Human consciousness determines what we do and how we do it. Consciousness is given order through a belief system. The reality of any belief system is expressed through ideas and values, which give us practical guidance. Ideas work together with values in a consistent, mutually affirming system. Ideas such as love, truth, and justice work according to values of caring, honesty, and fairness. The wise must also be just. Every society organizes itself politically, socially, and economically according to its values.
For tribal people, who see the world as a whole, the essence of our work is in its entirety. In a society where all are related, simple decisions require the approval of nearly everyone in that society. It is society as a whole, not merely a part of it, that must survive. This is the indigenous understanding. It is the understanding in a global sense. We are all indigenous people on this planet, and we have to reorganize to get along." - Rebecca Adamson
Please also learn these definitions along with the words from the indigenous, as if one is going to use these terms, they should know their definitions. There's a reason one of them is viewed negatively.
- Individual Autonomy (Noun): The the unfettered freedom to pursue one's own self-interest, without regard for the well-being or rights of others. It is the ability to make choices and act solely based on personal desires, without being constrained by external forces such as morality, law, or social norms. This concept prioritizes individual desires and ambitions above all else, and views any external influence or restriction as a threat to one's autonomy.
- Individualism (Noun): A doctrine that holds the interests of the individual as ethically paramount, where individuals rely solely on their abilities and resources to survive and thrive in a competitive environment, governed by the laws of natural selection, where only the strongest succeed.
- Sovereignty (Noun): The supreme, independent, and ultimate authority or power over a claimed state, territory, or domain, maintained through a hierarchical structure that prioritizes the sovereign's interests, thereby creating and perpetuating marginalized populations within regions.
- Collectivism (Noun): The ideal that the fundamental unit of the human species that lives, thinks, and acts towards common goals is not the individual but some group. This group is the whole human species, and it acts as a superorganism, separate from individuals.
- Humanism (Noun): A form of collectivism and way of life centered on human interests, values,and well-being, especially a philosophy that usually rejects supernaturalism and stresses an individual's dignity and worth and capacity for self-realization through reason, logic, and naturalism, as opposed to religious dogma and supernaturalism.
- Communism (Noun): A system of social organization based on the holding of all property in common with actual ownership ascribed to the community as a whole. It is characterized by a classless society, a transitional stateless process, and the equal distribution of economic goods. It is to be achieved by revolutionary and dictatorial collectivism, rather than gradualistic means. The ultimate and final form of humanism (and in the 21st century, communism can only truly function via a hive-mind).
The quotes above focused on the Indigenous form Turtle Island. Sovereignty and control of Turtle Island just for indigenous people is not what the indigenous minds shared above were calling for. They were calling for the collective oneness and the shared duty and stewardship of the entire plant for all of humanity, on every region of the earth. The sovereignty of all people as a single people, from those that currently oppress and violate every single member of the human species.
Indigenous perspectives may differ from tribe to tribe and person to person but these are the views that I have heard during my 40+ years on this planet, that have been spoken for centuries, and they are the Indigenous views those who believe in oneness and collectivism should side with and support. I have underlined the key points to make sure people understand what they are saying, and what they are saying applies to everyone, including their people.
1. "We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors. We borrow it from our children." - Chief Seattle
2. "Humans merely share the earth. We can only protect the land, not own it." - Chief Seattle
3. "The earth does not belong to man. Man belongs to the earth. All things are connected like the blood that unites us all. Man did not weave the web of life. He is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself." - Chief Seattle
4. "We are guests on this land - nobody owns it." - Serena Mills
5. "We cannot claim ownership of the earth, for we are but temporary caretakers." - Wilma Mankiller
6. "No one has the right to claim ownership of the earth." - Taiaiake Alfred
7. "Our land is more valuable than your money. As long as the sun shines and the waters flow, this land will be here to give life to men and animals; therefore, we cannot sell this land. It was put here for us by the Great Spirit and we cannot sell it because it does not belong to us." - Crowfoot
8. “One does not sell the earth upon which the people walk” - Crazy Horse
9. "Man sometimes thinks he's been elevated to be the controller, the ruler, but he's not. He's only part of the whole. Man's job is not to exploit, but to oversee, to be a steward,. Man has responsibility, not power." - Oren Lyons
10. "Warriors are not what you think of as warriors. The warrior is not someone who fights, because no one has the right to take another life. The warrior, for us, is one who sacrifices himself for the good of others. His task is to take care of the elderly, the defenseless, those who cannot provide for themselves, and above all, the children, the future of humanity." - Sitting Bull
11. "It reminds the whole community that leadership is rooted not in power and authority, but in service and wisdom." - Robin Wall Kimmerer
12. "As Native Americans, we believe the Rainbow is a sign from the Spirit in all things: It is a sign of the union of all people, like one big family. The unity of all humanity, many tribes and peoples, is essential." - Thomas Banyacya
13. "All things are connected like the blood which unites one family." - Chief Seattle
14. "If the white man wants to live in peace with the Indian, he can live in peace. There need be no trouble. Treat all men alike. Give them all the same law. Give them all an even chance to live and grow. All men were made by the same Great Spirit Chief. They are all brothers. The earth is the mother of all people, and all people should have equal rights upon it. You might as well expect all rivers to run backward as that any man who was born a free man should be contented penned up and denied liberty to go where he pleases." - Chief Joseph of Nez Perce
15. "The first peace, which is the most important, is that which comes within the souls of people when they realize their relationship, their oneness with the universe and all its powers, and when they realize that at the center of the universe dwells the Great Spirit, and that this center is really everywhere. It is within each of us.
The universe is circles within circles, and everything is one circle. And all the circles are connected to each other. Each family is a circle, and those family circles connect with each other and make a community. And the community makes a circle where it lives on the Earth.
The community cares for that part of the Earth, but cares for it as a circle - which is to say in a cooperative and egalitarian way, where everybody is cared for, and everybody is respected. All things are our relatives; what we do to everything, we do to ourselves. All is really one.
Peace will come to the hearts of men when they realize their oneness with the Universe. It is everywhere." - Black Elk, Oglala Lakota (Sioux)
16. "Before our white brothers came to civilize us, we had no jails. Therefore, we had no criminals. You can't have criminals without a jail. We had no locks or keys, and so we had no thieves. If a man was so poor that he had no horse, tipi, or blanket, someone gave him these things. We were too uncivilized to set much value on personal belongings. We wanted to have things only in order to give them away. We had no money, and therefore a man's worth couldn't be measured by it. We had no written law, no attorneys or politicians, therefore we couldn't cheat. We really were in a bad way before the white men came, and I don't know how we managed to get along without these basic things which, we are told, are absolutely necessary to make a civilized society." - John Fire Lame Deer
17. "All red races are born Socialists, and most tribes carry out the communistic ideas to the letter. Amongst the Iroquois, it is considered disgraceful to have food if your neighbor has none. To be a creditable member of the nation, you must divide your possessions with your less fortunate fellows. I find it much the same amongst the Coast Indians, though they are less bitter in their hatred of the extremes of wealth and poverty than are the Eastern tribes.
Still, the very fact that they have preserved this legend, in which they liken avarice to a slimy sea-serpent, shows the trend of their ideas; shows, too, that an Indian is an Indian, no matter what his tribe, shows that he cannot, or will not, hoard money; shows that his native morals demand that the spirit of greed must be strangled at all costs." - Tekahionwake
18. "For tribal people, who see the world as a whole, the essence of our work is in its entirety. In a society where all are related, simple decisions require the approval of nearly everyone in that society. It is society as a whole, not merely a part of it, that must survive. This is the indigenous understanding. It is the understanding in a global sense. We are all indigenous people on this planet, and we have to reorganize to get along." - Rebecca Adamson
19. "The indigenous understanding has its basis in spirituality, in a recognition of the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living things, a holistic and balanced view of the world. All things are bound together. All things connect. What happens to the Earth happens to the children of the Earth. Humankind has not woven the web of life; we are but one thread. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves." - Rebecca Adamson
20. "A very great vision is needed, and the man who has it must follow it as the eagle seeks the deepest blue of the sky." - Crazy Horse
21. "Although wrongs have been done to me, I live in hope. I have not got two hearts. Now we are together again to make peace. My shame is as big as the earth, although I will do what my friends advise me to do. I once thought that I was the only man that persevered to be the friend of the white man, but since they have come and cleaned out our lodges, horses, and everything else, it is hard for me to believe white men anymore." - Chief Black Kettle
22. "I joined the Communist party because of poverty, because of mistreatment, because things had to change. I was a leader. Speaking to people made them see our sorrows. After so much struggle, even made the government cry." - Transito Araguaria
23. "Communism is the Horizon, Queer indigenous Feminism is the Way." - Nick Estes, The Red Nation
24. "I hope to contribute to a global warming of hearts and a climate change in human consciousness." - Q'orianka Kilcher
25. "We can effect real change by pushing ourselves to engage in conversations with each other. That's the goal for all of us, as professionals and community members, especially if we are in positions of power to create, change, and understanding. Because we are guests on this land - nobody owns it." - Serena Mills
26. "It's not so much about focusing on the omission or belonging and all of us having a right to a home, but rather about introducing non-indigenous people to this land's accurate confederate history and the importance of relationship to land, despite the dominant worldview owning the land. All we're asking you to do is to remember, and remember with us." - Serena Mills
27. "We have been given the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. So now, we bring our minds together as one, as we give greetings and thanks to each other as people. Now our minds are one." - Haudenosaunee Confederacy
28. "Then I was standing on the highest mountain of them all, and round about beneath me was the hoop of the world. And while I stood there, I saw more than I can tell, and I understood more than I saw, for I was seeing in a sacred manner the shapes of all things in the spirit, and the shape of all shapes as they must live together like one being. And I saw that the sacred hoop of my people was one of many hoops that made one circle, wide as daylight and as straight, and in the center grew one mighty flowering tree to shelter all the children of one mother and one father, and I saw that it was holy." - Black Elk
29. "Human consciousness determines what we do and how we do it. Consciousness is given order through a belief system. The reality of any belief system is expressed through ideas and values, which give us practical guidance. Ideas work together with values in a consistent, mutually affirming system. Ideas such as love, truth, and justice work according to values of caring, honesty, and fairness. The wise must also be just. Every society organizes itself politically, socially, and economically according to its values.
For tribal people, who see the world as a whole, the essence of our work is in its entirety. In a society where all are related, simple decisions require the approval of nearly everyone in that society. It is society as a whole, not merely a part of it, that must survive. This is the indigenous understanding. It is the understanding in a global sense. We are all indigenous people on this planet, and we have to reorganize to get along." - Rebecca Adamson
Please also learn these definitions along with the words from the indigenous, as if one is going to use these terms, they should know their definitions. There's a reason one of them is viewed negatively.
- Individual Autonomy (Noun): The the unfettered freedom to pursue one's own self-interest, without regard for the well-being or rights of others. It is the ability to make choices and act solely based on personal desires, without being constrained by external forces such as morality, law, or social norms. This concept prioritizes individual desires and ambitions above all else, and views any external influence or restriction as a threat to one's autonomy.
- Individualism (Noun): A doctrine that holds the interests of the individual as ethically paramount, where individuals rely solely on their abilities and resources to survive and thrive in a competitive environment, governed by the laws of natural selection, where only the strongest succeed.
- Sovereignty (Noun): The supreme, independent, and ultimate authority or power over a claimed state, territory, or domain, maintained through a hierarchical structure that prioritizes the sovereign's interests, thereby creating and perpetuating marginalized populations within regions.
- Collectivism (Noun): The ideal that the fundamental unit of the human species that lives, thinks, and acts towards common goals is not the individual but some group. This group is the whole human species, and it acts as a superorganism, separate from individuals.
- Humanism (Noun): A form of collectivism and way of life centered on human interests, values,and well-being, especially a philosophy that usually rejects supernaturalism and stresses an individual's dignity and worth and capacity for self-realization through reason, logic, and naturalism, as opposed to religious dogma and supernaturalism.
- Communism (Noun): A system of social organization based on the holding of all property in common with actual ownership ascribed to the community as a whole. It is characterized by a classless society, a transitional stateless process, and the equal distribution of economic goods. It is to be achieved by revolutionary and dictatorial collectivism, rather than gradualistic means. The ultimate and final form of humanism (and in the 21st century, communism can only truly function via a hive-mind).
The quotes above focused on the Indigenous form Turtle Island. Sovereignty and control of Turtle Island just for indigenous people is not what the indigenous minds shared above were calling for. They were calling for the collective oneness and the shared duty and stewardship of the entire plant for all of humanity, on every region of the earth. The sovereignty of all people as a single people, from those that currently oppress and violate every single member of the human species.
Closing
After reading this Marxist-Leninist study guide, you should understand the following fundamental principle:
The progression from feudalism to communism can be understood as a series of seizures of the means of production. Initially, capitalism emerged as the bourgeoisie seized control from the oppressive feudal aristocracy, establishing private ownership and profit. Next, socialism represents the workers (proletariat) seizing control from oppressive capitalists, establishing collective ownership and democratic control. However, socialism inevitably perpetuates inequality as workers prioritize their own interests over community needs, thereby maintaining exploitation. Communism addresses this by having the community take control, transcending class divisions and distributing resources based on need.
Having completed this guide, you now have a solid foundation in Marxism-Leninism. Remember:
- The left is not a monolith; Marxism-Leninism has distinct principles differing from other ideologies and communist versions. Infighting is a guaranteed problem under a big tent unification.
- Marxism-Leninism is a well-structured, responsible ideology prioritizing collective responsibility over individual interests.
- Its reputation for authoritarianism stems from those prioritizing selfish interests.
To deepen your understanding, engage with primary Marxist-Leninist texts and theory, as this guide only scratches the surface.
Here is a link and the 29 books I used for this study guide summary. 26 can be found in the link.
1) Why Socialism
2) The Principles Of Communism
3) Wage, Labor, and Capital
4) Three Sources and There Components Parts of Marxism
5) Karl Marx : a brief biographical sketch with an exposition of Marxism
6) The Communist Manifesto
7) The German Ideology Vol. 1 Chapter 1
8) Socialism, Utopian and Scientific
9) What is to be done
10) The state and revolution
11) The Proletarian Revolution and The Renegade Kautsky
12) The Historical Destiny of the Doctrine of Karl Marx
13) Opportunism and the collapse of the second international
14) The Collapse of the Second International
15) Imperialism and the split on Socialism
16) Certain features of the historical development of Marxism
17) Marxism and Revisionism
18) Marxism and reformism
19) “Left-Wing” Communism: an Infantile Disorder
20) Anti-Dühring Part III: Socialism
21) The Foundations of Leninism
22) On Contradiction
23) Anti-Duhring Part I: Philosophy
24) Ludwig Feuerbach and the End of Classical German Philosophy
25) Theses On Feuerbach
26) Value Price and Profit
27) Anti-Dühring Part II: Political Economy
28) Capital Vol 1.
29) Imperialism the Highest Stage of Capitalism
2) The Principles Of Communism
3) Wage, Labor, and Capital
4) Three Sources and There Components Parts of Marxism
5) Karl Marx : a brief biographical sketch with an exposition of Marxism
6) The Communist Manifesto
7) The German Ideology Vol. 1 Chapter 1
8) Socialism, Utopian and Scientific
9) What is to be done
10) The state and revolution
11) The Proletarian Revolution and The Renegade Kautsky
12) The Historical Destiny of the Doctrine of Karl Marx
13) Opportunism and the collapse of the second international
14) The Collapse of the Second International
15) Imperialism and the split on Socialism
16) Certain features of the historical development of Marxism
17) Marxism and Revisionism
18) Marxism and reformism
19) “Left-Wing” Communism: an Infantile Disorder
20) Anti-Dühring Part III: Socialism
21) The Foundations of Leninism
22) On Contradiction
23) Anti-Duhring Part I: Philosophy
24) Ludwig Feuerbach and the End of Classical German Philosophy
25) Theses On Feuerbach
26) Value Price and Profit
27) Anti-Dühring Part II: Political Economy
28) Capital Vol 1.
29) Imperialism the Highest Stage of Capitalism
The Founding Principles of Communism and the indigenous wisdom were gathered from hours of searching and reading various texts. Those sections may or may not be covered or covered entirely in these 29 books. Just like with communism, there are various thoughts from indigenous peoples both on turtle island and all over the world, these thoughts create division of what both Communism and Indigenous Wisdom says and is.
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