The Communist Manifesto
by Karl Marx
Key Concepts
Class Struggle
Society is perpetually divided by the conflict between oppressor and oppressed economic classes.
Bourgeoisie & Proletariat
The capitalist ruling class exploits the industrial working class, creating inherent antagonism.
Historical Materialism
Economic conditions and modes of production are the primary drivers of historical development and social change.
Abolition of Private Property
Communism aims to eliminate private ownership of the means of production, not personal possessions.
Workers of the World
Proletarians must unite internationally to overthrow capitalism and establish a global communist society.
Action Items
Analyze political and social issues through an economic class lens.
Question the neutrality of state power and dominant ideologies.
Recognize the global interconnectedness of economic systems and labor movements.
Consider how economic structures shape individual freedoms and opportunities.
Advocate for collective ownership and control over the means of production.
Core Thesis
All history is a chronicle of class struggles, inevitably leading to the overthrow of capitalism by the proletariat and the establishment of a classless society.
Mindset Shift
The book fundamentally shifts perspective from individual agency to collective class identity as the primary force shaping history and society.