Marxism

• What is the main conflict in Marxism according to Karl Marx?

  Conflict between the rich and the poor
• How does Marxism view capitalism?

  As a system keeping the rich wealthy
• What is capitalism defined as?

  An economic system with private ownership
• Who does Marx refer to as the ruling class?

  The bourgeoisie
• What does Marx mean by 'relations of production'?

  The arrangement between bourgeoisie and proletariat
• Who are the proletariat according to Marx?

  The subject class that is exploited
• What does Marx believe causes revolutions and protests?

  Money
• What are the characteristics of the bourgeoisie?

  • Owners of production (factories, land)
  • Owners of wealth
  • Upper or middle class
  • Make massive profits
  • Exploit the proletariat
• What are the characteristics of the proletariat?

  • Not owners of production
  • Own nothing, forced to work
  • Working or lower class
  • Make minimum wage, little profit
  • Exploited for labor
• What happens to capitalists who lose in competition?

  They often join the working classes
• What does Marx predict will happen to workers?

  They will rise up against capitalism
• What are the two parts of society according to Marx?

  • Foundation: the economy
  • Structure: other societal elements
• How does the economic base affect society according to Marx?

  It determines the state of the structure
• What are some criticisms of Marxism?

  • Not always about money (culture, religion)
  • People have free will
  • Gender and race blind
• What are the strengths of Marxism?

  • Links major institutions
  • Major influence on sociology
  • Emphasizes the economy
  • Connects structural elements with individual consciousness
• What are the weaknesses of Marxism?

  • Over-emphasizes conflict
  • Economically deterministic
  • Ignores women's roles
  • Historical failures of communism
  • Society doesn't always serve ruling class