Marxism basics

Question 1

What was Marx’s starting point?

Answer 1

The economic system of any society largely determined the social structure - the openers of the economic structure are able to control the society and construct values and social relationships which reflect their own interests. Others are less powerful and accept these.

Question 2

What does Marx divide history into?

Answer 2

Five periods or epochs which are distinguished by ever more complex economic arrangements

Question 3

Describe the Marxist model of society

Answer 3

Economic base or means of production controlled by a ruling class, who construct a set of social relationships (relations of production) that benefit them and allow them to exploit all others

Question 4

What leads to a new epoch?

Answer 4

Values not moving as fast as technology and eventually impeding its progression. A new challenging group arises with ideas that would help the means of production advance, and after a degree of conflict they gain control of society and begin a new epoch.

Question 5

What are the criticisms of the theory?

Answer 5

Capitalism has grown stronger and spread, not weakened.
Polarisation of wealth has not occurred - in fact the middle classes have grown
Capitalism changed after Marx’s death - eg health, pension, housing and welfare benefits

Question 6

What did Castles and Kosack identify?

Answer 6

The reserve army of labour