Author: Dr. Fazl Ahmad Ahmadi
Marx and Marxism (Part One)
Abstract
Marxism is the only political thought that is explicitly attributed to a particular individual. This ideology, which grew and developed alongside Marx’s activities, did not vanish with his death; rather, the number of its followers has continued to increase. Although Marx spent most of his life in Western countries, especially in England, his followers are predominantly based in the East, where Marxism is considered a political philosophy opposed to Western liberalism and imperialism.
According to this article, the fundamental question is: what characteristics and foundations does Marxism possess that have allowed it to persist after the death of its founder and position itself in opposition to other ideologies?
These findings were derived using a descriptive-analytical method and drawn from library sources.
Marxism emerged at a time when imperialist ideologies were dominating the world’s resources and paying little attention to human values and societal concerns. Consequently, Marx developed intellectual foundations that positioned humanity as the central focus, viewing all activities stemming from other ideologies as utilitarian, thereby enabling him to achieve significant recognition in a relatively short period.
Keywords: Marx, Marxism, political thought, England, classes.
Introduction
Marxism is the only political thought that is attributed to a specific individual. This ideology, which evolved simultaneously with Marx’s activities, did not cease to exist upon his death; rather, the number of its followers continues to grow. Although Marx spent a significant portion of his life in Western countries, particularly in England, most of his followers are located in the East, where Marxism is viewed as a political ideology in opposition to Western liberalism and imperialism.
Research into political ideologies in general, and Marxism in particular, retains considerable importance even in the 21st century, a time when power seems concentrated among the elite. The examination of Marxism holds unique dignity and relevance. One of the most crucial issues that contribute to the growth and development of political, economic, and cultural life within human society is the mutual understanding of the diverse philosophical and political distinctions, which have influenced fundamental societal issues based on the intentions of their founders. Analyzing Marxist political thought is a pressing political necessity; engaging with this ideology can foster the development of beliefs, promote respect for differing viewpoints, and bring us closer to recognizing that many individuals still adhere to political ideologies that may be rejected from certain perspectives, especially those aligned with Islamic law.
Numerous books have been written regarding political ideologies in general. It can be posited that nearly every book discussing political ideas includes detailed or comprehensive discussions on Marxism. Additionally, a significant number of articles have been authored on the philosophical and political dimensions of Marxism, some of which are referenced in the sources for this research. However, this study distinguishes itself from other existing research by providing a general overview and concise representation of the beliefs, foundations, opinions, and components that constitute Marxism. This approach aims to give the reader a clear mental framework of Marxism, illustrating the beliefs and foundational elements that define this political thought, alongside its opposition to various ideologies and its historical fluctuations over several centuries.
The central question this article addresses is: what are the characteristics and foundations of Marxism that have enabled it to endure beyond the life of its founder while simultaneously opposing other ideologies?
These findings derive from a descriptive-analytical method supported by library sources, indicating that Marxism was born in an era when imperialist ideologies dominated the world’s resources, neglecting human values and societal concerns. Thus, Marx laid the intellectual groundwork that prioritized humanity as the central axis, characterizing the activities of other ideologies as utilitarian, allowing him to attain a distinguished position in a short span.
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