ANARCHISM AND MARXISM Meaning and
Definition
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Anarchism is a political ideology and philosophy that advocates for the elimination of hierarchical systems and the establishment of a society based on voluntary cooperation, mutual aid, and self-governance. Anarchists reject the existence of state authority, as they believe it leads to oppression and inequality. Instead, they aim for a non-coercive society where individuals have the freedom to organize and make decisions collectively. Anarchism opposes all forms of domination, including capitalism, patriarchy, racism, and imperialism, on the grounds that they perpetuate social hierarchies and restrict individual autonomy.
On the other hand, Marxism is a socio-political and economic theory developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. It seeks to analyze and transform society by focusing on the conflicts arising from the capitalist mode of production. According to Marxism, societal issues arise due to the exploitation of the working class by the capitalist class. The ideology advocates for the establishment of a classless society, based on common ownership of the means of production, where wealth and resources are distributed equitably.
While anarchism and Marxism share a criticism of capitalism, they differ in terms of their proposed solutions. Anarchists argue for the complete elimination of all forms of hierarchy, including the state, seeking to achieve a society based on voluntary cooperation. In contrast, Marxism sees the state as a temporary instrument that can be used by the working class to overthrow capitalism and establish a proletarian-led state, paving the way for a transition period towards communism, where the state eventually withers away. Despite their differences, both anarchism and Marxism strive for a more egalitarian and just society.
