Quick Summary: It's important to note that Marxism's class analysis has evolved and been adapted by various thinkers over time, and the modern understanding of class dynamics may incorporate additional layers, such as the petite bourgeoisie (small business owners) and the lumpenproletariat (those on the fringes of the working class). Moreover, class dynamics can be influenced by factors like race, gender, and other forms of social identity, which add complexity to the Marxist analysis of class struggle in contemporary societies.
In Marxism, there are two main classes that play a central role in the theory's analysis of social and economic relations: the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. These classes are key to understanding Marxist theory and its critique of capitalism.
Bourgeoisie (Capitalist Class): The bourgeoisie, often referred to as the capitalist class, represents the owners of the means of production in a capitalist society. These means of production include factories, land, machinery, and resources. The bourgeoisie accumulate wealth and power by owning and controlling these productive assets. They make profits by employing the labor of the proletariat and selling the goods or services produced at a higher price than the cost of production. In Marxist terms, the bourgeoisie are the ruling class, and they maintain their dominance through the economic and political systems that serve their interests.
Proletariat (Working Class): The proletariat, often called the working class, comprises individuals who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor power to the bourgeoisie in order to earn a living. They typically work in factories, offices, and various industries, providing the essential labor needed for the production of goods and services. The proletariat receives wages in exchange for their labor, but they do not share in the profits generated by their work. According to Marx, the proletariat is often subjected to exploitation and alienation under capitalism.
Marxist theory argues that the inherent conflict of interest between these two classes is a fundamental driver of social and economic change. The bourgeoisie seek to maximize profits and maintain their control over the means of production, while the proletariat, facing exploitation and often poor working conditions, have an interest in improving their situation. This class struggle is a central concept in Marxism and is seen as a catalyst for historical change, including revolutions and the transition from capitalism to socialism or communism.
Via: Reddit
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