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Marxism is widely identified as the intellectual underpinning of Communism, but Marx's philosophy has been hugely influential beyond just that particular econom
by zukzuk 8y ago
Marxism is widely identified as the intellectual underpinning of Communism, but Marx's philosophy has been hugely influential beyond just that particular economic model. For example, Feminism is often said to be rooted in Marxism, so it's arguable that many of those who identify as Feminists are also Marxists-by-proxy.
As is often the case in philosophy, Marx was brilliant in critique, but lacking in his prescription. Philosophy tends to be great at asking questions, but not so much at answering them.
I suspect many intellectuals who call themselves Marxists identify with Marx's critique — which arguably still stands and a brilliant and revolutionary body of thought — but not with some of its eventual realizations.
- dragonwriter 8y ago> For example, Feminism is often said to be rooted in Marxism There is both a branch of feminism that is Marxist in the strict sense, and there is the school of feminist critical theory that utilizes parallel structure to (and is largely inspired by) Marxist critical theory, swapping out the central conflict of class for one of gender, but feminism in the broad sense is not inspired by or related to Marxism, and the idea that it is is mostly one of the anti-feminist Right in the West, used to attach the negative emotional charge of Marxism with the general population to feminism.
- randomsearch 8y agoThanks zukzuk. Matches the sibling comment. This sounds reasonable - believing it’s a good lens to view the world through. I’m certain there’s value in that, don’t know if I agree it’s the best lens, but you’ve answered my question well.