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THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW MORALS TO SERVE OLD INSTINCTS: MARX

Socialists, including Karl Marx, respond to basic human instincts by trying to create new moral ideas. However, they often miss how individual actions can create order in society. Marx saw capitalism as chaotic because he believed that the value of goods came solely from the labor that created them. This view led him to see prices as linked to past work instead of understanding that prices signal what people should do now. Because of this misunderstanding, Marxists often struggle to grasp how people can make choices that lead to a well-organized society.

Egalitarianism, the belief that everyone should be treated equally, is considered especially harmful. It fails to recognize that individuals should be valued differently based on their efforts and achievements. When everyone is treated the same, motivation declines, and the moral rules that help society function can break down. Egalitarianism suggests that people should all receive the same rewards, regardless of whether they follow moral rules, which can lead to chaos in society.

Moral behavior depends on how people are judged based on their actions. Communities maintain their morals by excluding those who repeatedly break the rules. Even though a person’s environment can influence their behavior, they should still be responsible for their choices, regardless of their circumstances.

The idea that everyone is equally to blame or a victim of their surroundings undermines a stable society. To keep social order, it’s important to recognize the different moral behaviors and contributions of individuals. A focus on egalitarianism could slow down human progress by ignoring the unique talents of people, which are vital for society’s growth. Allowing individuals to find their places in society through market signals is essential for ongoing improvement and advancement.