CHAPTER V THE MATERIALIST CONCEPTION OF HISTORY
§ 1 Thought and Being
Feuerbach argued that thought originates from being, not the other way around. This idea influenced materialism, emphasizing that our thoughts and ideas are rooted in our physical existence, notably highlighted by the phrase "Man is what he eats." Materialism views thought as dependent on social and economic conditions. There are two contradictory interpretations of this materialist standpoint. The first suggests that thought directly evolves from one’s economic environment, implying there is no historical progression in science or individual ideas, but rather a reflection of production conditions. Marx illustrated this by contrasting how Descartes viewed animals as machines due to the industrial mindset of his time. The second interpretation states that class interests shape thought. Marx categorized economists into bourgeois and proletarian based on their social class. He believed that even economic theories were influenced by class interests. However, critiques point out that Marx's views are derived from earlier thinkers like Ricardo and that economic evolution is driven by intellectual processes that transcend political motives. Ultimately, socialism, which is often viewed as a working-class movement, has roots in intellectual circles that include supporters from various social classes, not just the proletariat.
§ 2 Science and Socialism
Abstract thought operates independently from personal wishes and goals, influencing actions rather than being influenced by them. Economic life is shaped by thought, not the other way around. Even if class interests impact thought, recognizing these interests is a product of thought itself. Marxism claims to represent a universal truth beyond class interests, presenting itself as the sole scientific perspective. It positions prior philosophies as pre-historical, with Marxism being the ultimate truth. Over time, Marxists have simplified this philosophy into a doctrine that equates science with Marxist principles, leading to a cult-like devotion to their interpretations. This has stifled free thought within Marxism, as deviations are met with hostility.
§ 3 the Psychological Presuppositions of Socialism
Marxism suggests that the proletariat, or working class, in a capitalist society is likely to adopt socialist ideas. This is linked to the rise of large-scale industries, which made traditional ideas of redistributing property obsolete. Rather than considering alternatives, workers believe socialism is necessary for achieving equality. While socialism has many supporters, it is especially popular among workers who think it is beneficial for them. However, workers often lack understanding of the broader economic system and see themselves as the only productive members of society, perceiving others as unproductive. This limited perspective leads them to embrace the notion of socialism when they hear calls for workers' empowerment, believing that it serves their interests, even if this belief may not reflect the reality of their situation.
§ 1 Thought and Being
Feuerbach argued that thought originates from being, not the other way around. This idea influenced materialism, emphasizing that our thoughts and ideas are rooted in our physical existence, notably highlighted by the phrase "Man is what he eats." Materialism views thought as dependent on social and economic conditions. There are two contradictory interpretations of this materialist standpoint. The first suggests that thought directly evolves from one’s economic environment, implying there is no historical progression in science or individual ideas, but rather a reflection of production conditions. Marx illustrated this by contrasting how Descartes viewed animals as machines due to the industrial mindset of his time. The second interpretation states that class interests shape thought. Marx categorized economists into bourgeois and proletarian based on their social class. He believed that even economic theories were influenced by class interests. However, critiques point out that Marx's views are derived from earlier thinkers like Ricardo and that economic evolution is driven by intellectual processes that transcend political motives. Ultimately, socialism, which is often viewed as a working-class movement, has roots in intellectual circles that include supporters from various social classes, not just the proletariat.
§ 2 Science and Socialism
Abstract thought operates independently from personal wishes and goals, influencing actions rather than being influenced by them. Economic life is shaped by thought, not the other way around. Even if class interests impact thought, recognizing these interests is a product of thought itself. Marxism claims to represent a universal truth beyond class interests, presenting itself as the sole scientific perspective. It positions prior philosophies as pre-historical, with Marxism being the ultimate truth. Over time, Marxists have simplified this philosophy into a doctrine that equates science with Marxist principles, leading to a cult-like devotion to their interpretations. This has stifled free thought within Marxism, as deviations are met with hostility.
§ 3 the Psychological Presuppositions of Socialism
Marxism suggests that the proletariat, or working class, in a capitalist society is likely to adopt socialist ideas. This is linked to the rise of large-scale industries, which made traditional ideas of redistributing property obsolete. Rather than considering alternatives, workers believe socialism is necessary for achieving equality. While socialism has many supporters, it is especially popular among workers who think it is beneficial for them. However, workers often lack understanding of the broader economic system and see themselves as the only productive members of society, perceiving others as unproductive. This limited perspective leads them to embrace the notion of socialism when they hear calls for workers' empowerment, believing that it serves their interests, even if this belief may not reflect the reality of their situation.