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Foundations of the Critique of Political Economy

Willie Blair

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Published in Grundrisse: Foundations Of The Critique Of Political Economy (Penguin Classics)

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By Karl Marx

First published in 1857, Foundations of the Critique of Political Economy is a groundbreaking work of economic and philosophical theory. In it, Karl Marx sets out the foundations of his critique of capitalism, arguing that the system is based on the exploitation of the working class.

Marx's analysis of capitalism is based on the concept of surplus value. Surplus value is the difference between the value of the goods that workers produce and the wages that they are paid. Marx argues that this surplus value is appropriated by the capitalists, who use it to accumulate wealth.

Grundrisse: Foundations of the Critique of Political Economy (Penguin Classics)

by Karl Marx

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2184 KB
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Print length	:	914 pages

Marx's critique of capitalism is not merely an economic one. He also argues that the system has a profound impact on society, leading to the alienation of workers from their labor, from each other, and from themselves.

Foundations of the Critique of Political Economy is a complex and challenging work, but it is also a deeply rewarding one. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of economic thought, the development of capitalism, or the nature of society itself.

Key Concepts

Surplus value: The difference between the value of the goods that workers produce and the wages that they are paid.
Accumulation of capital: The process by which capitalists use surplus value to increase their wealth.
Alienation: The process by which workers are separated from their labor, from each other, and from themselves.

Influence

Foundations of the Critique of Political Economy has had a profound influence on the development of economic thought and political movements around the world. It is a key text in the Marxist tradition, and it has also been influential in the development of other schools of thought, such as socialism, communism, and anarchism.

The book has also been widely used in the study of society and culture. Marx's analysis of capitalism has been used to explain a wide range of social and political phenomena, from the rise of fascism to the growth of inequality.

Legacy

Foundations of the Critique of Political Economy is a classic work of economic and philosophical thought. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of capitalism, the development of economic thought, or the nature of society itself.

About the Author

Karl Marx was a German philosopher, economist, and sociologist. He is best known for his critique of capitalism and his advocacy for communism. Marx's work has had a profound influence on the development of economic thought and political movements around the world.

Grundrisse: Foundations of the Critique of Political Economy (Penguin Classics)

by Karl Marx

4.7 out of 5