Communism vs Marxism
In the realm of political ideologies, Communism and Marxism are often discussed due to their similarities and differences. Although there is not a significant difference between the two concepts, there are some distinctions in terms of certain aspects. The connection between Communism and Marxism can be traced back to when Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels wrote the Communist Manifesto, where they outlined a theory that would change society – Marxism. The final stage of the societal transformation brought about by Marxism is Communism.
Understanding Marxism
Marxism revolves around the theoretical interpretation of principles that aim to develop a framework for a state where everyone is equal. It involves analyzing different aspects of a state in which there is no distinction between the rich and the poor. Marxism is a philosophy rooted in the materialistic interpretation of history, and Marxists place great importance on history, arguing that humans are driven by the forces created by their needs and wants.
The core theory of Marxism is that there is a class struggle between classes in capitalist states due to underpaid workers and bourgeoisie profiting off the workers’ labor. This leads to a proletariat revolution, which aims to put an end to the class struggle.
Key Takeaways
- Marxism is a theoretical interpretation of principles, while Communism is the practical implementation of Marxism.
- Communism aims to create a state of equality, while Marxism provides the framework for developing such a state.
- A Marxist focuses on bringing about social change, while a Communist focuses on maintaining a society where everyone is equal.
Defining Communism
Communism is the practical implementation of Marxism and is achieved once Marxism is put into action. It is a more organized approach in which a political system is developed to create a society where everyone is equal. Communism focuses on achieving equality, and unlike Marxists, Communists do not place much importance on history. In a communist society, the means of production are owned by the public, and private ownership is not permitted.
Differences between Marxism and Communism
There are some key differences between Communism and Marxism, including:
- Communism being the practical implementation of Marxism, while Marxism is a theoretical interpretation of principles.
- Marxism provides the framework for the political and economic ideology of Communism.
- Marxism focuses on analyzing the different aspects of a state with no distinction between the rich and the poor, while Communism works towards creating a political system where all are equal.
- The ideology of a Marxist is slightly different from that of a Communist, as a Marxist aims to bring about social change while a Communist focuses on maintaining a society where everyone is equal.
- In a Marxist society, there are class struggles and worker exploitation, while in a Communist society, everyone is paid fairly for their labor.
- In a Marxist society, the bourgeoisie owns the means of production, while in Communism, there is no private ownership, and all means of production and natural resources are owned by the public.
