Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels

Question 1

key ideas

Answer 1

1. social class is central to socialism
2. human nature is socially determined and can only be expressed under communism

Question 2

social class

Answer 2

marxism
* historical materialism: social and historic development is driven by economic and class factors. the economic condition (eg capitalism) influences all other aspects of society
* dualectic change: each stage of history has its own economic systems and class structure. progress occurs through the conflict between exploiters
(the ruling class) and the exploited (the working class). this leads to the establishment of a communist society
* revolutionary class consciousness: the exploited class must develop a revoluionary class consciousness in order to overthrow their oppressors. they must become a ‘class for itself’, aware of its own interests and determined to pursue them

Question 3

human nature

Answer 3

• humans are inherently social, rational and cooperative beings. their behaviour and potential are shaped more by nurture than nature, allowing for significant personal and social development
• capitalism alienates humans by: separating them from the products of their labour as they do not own what is produced; dividing them from colleagues due to competition and the division of labour; disconnecting them from the creative production process; limiting their ability to realise their full capabilities and enjoy creativity
• under communism humans are free to pursue creative and meaningful work, engage in cooperative activities and enjoy increased leisure time, and provide socially necessary work that meets collective needs