Marxisms, a plural noun, refers to the diverse range of philosophical, political, and economic theories, interpretations, and practices associated with Marxism, Karl Marx's socio-political ideology. Marx, a 19th-century German philosopher, economist, and social theorist, developed a revolutionary perspective on society, history, and economics that has been subjected to various interpretations by his followers and scholars.
Marxisms encapsulates the multiple strands and variations of Marxist thought that have emerged over time, reflecting both the diversity in Marx's own writings and the subsequent interpretations and adaptations by various schools of thought and intellectuals. Key features common to most Marxisms include the critique of capitalism, the understanding of social change through class struggle, and the goal of a socialist, classless society.
However, Marxisms encompass a broad umbrella, encompassing different factions and branches, such as classical Marxism, Leninism, Maoism, Trotskyism, and more. These different forms of Marxisms vary in their emphasis on specific aspects of Marx's work, strategic approaches to revolution, and views on how to build a socialist society. Some Marxisms also incorporate additional influences such as feminism, environmentalism, or postcolonialism.
Thus, Marxisms represent a constantly evolving body of thought, engaging with Marx's ideas and applying them to different socio-political contexts and problems. The term encompasses the rich tapestry of theories, interpretations, and practices that have emerged from Marx's foundational work, shaping political movements, intellectual discourse, and societal transformations worldwide.
