Karl Marx’s concept of “Class Struggle” is a fundamental pillar of his socio-economic and political theory, particularly within the framework of Marxism. It forms the basis for understanding the dynamics and evolution of society, particularly in the context of capitalism.
Class struggle, as envisioned by Marx, refers to the ongoing conflict between different social classes within a society, primarily between the bourgeoisie (the capitalist class, which owns the means of production) and the proletariat (the working class, who sell their labor to the bourgeoisie in exchange for wages). Marx believed that these classes have inherently opposing interests and that their interactions are characterized by tensions and conflicts. Marx argued that the relationship between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat was one of exploitation and oppression. The bourgeoisie, driven by their pursuit of profit, seeks to extract surplus value from the labor of the proletariat, paying them wages that are often less than the value they produce. This surplus value is the source of profits for the bourgeoisie, leading to an unequal distribution of wealth and power.
Also read; Discuss the concept of the “Collective Unconscious” by Carl Jung
Over time, Marx believed that these class tensions would intensify, eventually leading to a revolutionary struggle. He predicted that the proletariat, who experience the most direct and severe effects of exploitation, would become conscious of their shared interests and unite to overthrow the bourgeoisie and the capitalist system. This would result in the establishment of a classless society, where the means of production are collectively owned and controlled, and wealth and resources are distributed equitably.
Marx’s concept of class struggle emphasizes the historical process of social change driven by material conditions, economic relationships, and the struggle for power between classes. He viewed history as a series of stages marked by different modes of production (e.g., feudalism, capitalism) and believed that the contradictions and conflicts within each mode of production would eventually lead to its transformation. Although Marx’s ideas have had a profound impact on social and political thought, they have also been subject to criticism and reinterpretation. Some critics argue that his predictions about the inevitability of revolution and the establishment of communism did not come to pass as he envisioned. Nevertheless, the concept of class struggle remains a key element in understanding the dynamics of societal change, economic inequality, and the interactions between different social groups.
Also read; Discuss the concept of the Electra Complex by Carl Jung