marxism overview

• What is Marxism based on?

  It is based on the ideas of Karl Marx.
• How is Marxism classified in sociology?

  It is a structural conflict theory.
• What does Marxism suggest about society?

  It suggests there is class conflict between those with power and wealth and the workers.
• What did Marx argue about industrialization?

  It created a division in society between two social classes.
• What are the two social classes identified by Marx?

  The bourgeoisie and the proletariat.
• Who controls the means of production according to Marx?

  The bourgeoisie or the ruling class.
• How does Marx describe the relationship between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat?

  It should be mutually beneficial, but the proletariat is exploited.
• How did the bourgeoisie maintain control over society?

  By controlling the economic and social infrastructure.
• What is false class consciousness?

  It makes the proletariat passive and less likely to challenge inequalities.
• What did Marx believe would happen when the proletariat became aware of their exploitation?

  They would revolt and seize the means of production.
• Who are neo-Marxists?

  Contemporary Marxists who criticize traditional Marxism.
• What are the key concepts of Marxism?

  • Class conflict between bourgeoisie and proletariat
  • Means of production controlled by the bourgeoisie
  • Proletariat exploited through low wages
  • Ideological control justifying exploitation
  • False class consciousness
  • Potential for proletariat revolt
• What are the criticisms of Marxism?

  • Predictions of revolution never occurred
  • Societies applying Marx's ideas often collapsed
  • Assumption of worker passivity challenged by neo-Marxists
  • Economic mismanagement in Marxist societies