AUTONOMIST MARXISM Meaning and
Definition
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Autonomist Marxism is a theoretical perspective within Marxism that emphasizes the idea of autonomous struggle and self-organization of various social groups, particularly the working class. This school of thought emerged in the 1960s in Italy, primarily associated with the operaismo (workerism) movement, and has since influenced a wide range of social movements and academic discussions.
At its core, autonomist Marxism highlights the importance of understanding the agency of non-state actors and their capacity to challenge and transform capitalist relations. It acknowledges the limitations of traditional Marxist notions of party politics and instead focuses on grassroots activism, workplace struggles, and everyday resistance as crucial sites for social change. Autonomist Marxists argue that social transformation should not be based solely on the centralized leadership of a vanguard party, but rather on the self-emancipation and self-determination of the working class.
Autonomist Marxism challenges the primacy of labor and capital dynamics, broadening the scope of class analysis to encompass various forms of social struggle, including feminist, anti-racist, and environmental movements. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse struggles and experiences of different social groups within the larger class struggle.
Overall, autonomist Marxism seeks to provide a framework for understanding and promoting social movements that operate independently from traditional structures of power, encouraging the self-organization and self-activity of marginalized groups in the pursuit of a more equitable and just society.
Etymology of AUTONOMIST MARXISM
The term "autonomist Marxism" is a combination of two components: "autonomist" and "Marxism".
1. Autonomist: The term originates from the Italian "autonomia" which means autonomy or independence. It emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s during a period of intense social and political unrest in Italy. Autonomist movements were characterized by their emphasis on self-organization, self-determination, and opposition to traditional political institutions. Autonomist theorists and activists sought to challenge and go beyond the established structures of power, advocating for greater autonomy and social change from below.
2. Marxism: Named after Karl Marx, Marxism refers to the socio-political and economic theories developed by Marx and Friedrich Engels in the 19th century. It encompasses a critique of capitalism and argues for the establishment of a classless society achieved through a proletarian revolution.
