Marxian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Marxian
[ˈmɑːrksiən ]
Definition
economic theory
Relating to or derived from the works of Karl Marx, a German philosopher, economist, and revolutionary socialist. Marxian economics focuses on the role of labor in the development of an economy and the exploitation of workers by the capitalist class.
Synonyms
Marxist, communist, socialist.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| Marxian |
This term is used in academic or theoretical discussions about the ideas and theories developed by Karl Marx. It focuses more on the theoretical aspects of Marx's works rather than political practices.
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| Marxist |
Similar to 'Marxian', but used more broadly to describe people, theories, and political movements that follow the ideas of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. It is often used in both academic and political discussions.
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| socialist |
This word is used to describe a wide range of political ideologies that advocate for social ownership and democratic control of the means of production. It can refer to both theoretical texts and practical political movements. It is generally less radical compared to 'communist' and more accepted in mainstream political discourse.
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| communist |
This is often used to describe people, political parties, or governments who advocate for or follow the principles of communism, which includes the abolition of private property and the establishment of a classless society. While it can be neutral, it sometimes carries negative connotations depending on the context.
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Examples of usage
- The Marxian approach to economics emphasizes the need for workers to control the means of production.
- Many scholars study Marxian theories to understand the dynamics of capitalism.
- Marxian analysis often critiques the inequalities present in capitalist societies.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from Karl Marx, a 19th-century thinker who wrote about how societies are shaped by economic forces.
- Marx wrote 'The Communist Manifesto' in 1848, calling for workers to unite against their employers for better rights.
- His ideas led to various political movements and revolutions in the 20th century, influencing countries around the world.
Economic Theory
- Marxian theory critiques capitalism, arguing that it leads to class struggle and exploitation of workers.
- It introduces the concept of surplus value, where workers create more value than they are paid, benefiting capitalists.
- The idea of dialectical materialism, which views history through the lens of conflict between classes, is central to Marxian thought.
Pop Culture
- Marx's concepts have been referenced in countless films, books, and songs, as artists explore themes of class struggle and social justice.
- In video games, elements of Marxian theory appear in narratives involving economic inequality and revolution.
- Contemporary discussions around income inequality often reference Marxian principles to critique modern capitalism.
Philosophical Influence
- Marxian thought has influenced a range of philosophers, from the Frankfurt School to contemporary critical theory.
- It raises questions about freedom, justice, and the roles of the individual versus the collective in society.
- Many modern social movements draw inspiration from Marx's analysis of capitalism and focus on systemic change.
Global Impact
- Countries like Russia, Cuba, and China adopted Marxian principles, leading to significant social and economic changes.
- The Cold War was largely shaped by the ideological battle between Marxian socialism and capitalist democracy.
- Marxian ideas continue to spark debate globally, especially in discussions about wealth disparity and globalization.
Origin of 'Marxian'
The term 'Marxian' originated in the late 19th century, following the rise of Karl Marx's ideas on socialism and the critique of capitalism. It has since been used to describe theories, analyses, or perspectives that are influenced by Marx's works and beliefs.