Marxism Mr. Parker IBH2

Classic Marxism A theory designed to explain the evolution of society. Focussed on the role of economics and material determinism. Argued that the transition from Capitalism to Socialism is an inevitable part of human society. Founded on the belief that a socialist society would be the better for the majority of society. Divided society into classes – the proletariat (workers who sell their labour) and the bourgeoisie (buyers/exploiters of labour.)

Marxism-Leninism Extended the beliefs of Marxism Largest trend within Marxist thought. Also known as Bolshevism and Communism Implemented by Stalin after he death of Lenin Lenin believed that it was necessary to “speed” the evolutionary process along through revolution. The inevitable transformation of society into a socialist republic through the leadership of a revolutionary vanguard.

Major tenets Revolutionary vanguard of the proletariat – professional revolutionaries. One party state – dictatorship of the proletariat. Democratic Centralism – “diversity in discussion, unity in action.” State control of the economy Opposition to capitalism Opposition to bourgeois democracy Internationalist – proletariat to ally with oppressed minorities and marginalized groups. Social goals – universal social welfare – an educated proletariat. Economic goals – efficiency and scientific planning – not market forces. Industrialisation Agricultural and land reform.

MAOISM Marxism-Leninism applied in a Chinese context. Four periods

Evolution of Maoism 1920-1926 – Classic Marxism Drew on classic Marxist thought Industrialisation and urbanisation.

1927-1935 – Revolutionary and Counter Revolutionary In this period Mao moved away from classic Marxism Embraced Revolutionary thought Focussed on struggle between the CCP and the GMD

Recognition that classic Marxism would not work in China 1935-1940 Maturation Recognition that classic Marxism would not work in China There was no industrial class and the cities belonged to the GMD Move away from the Soviet model Rejection of Stalin Included Nationalism and appeal to the Peasantry

1940-1949 – Revolutionary Practice Developed during the Sino-Japanese War and the Civil War Focussed on Nationalism and Peasant revolution Mao’s focus on nationalism ran against classical Marxist thought Mao recognised that an appeal for a strong nation would gain the CCP support. He used the CCP’s successes against the Japanese, real and imagined to bolster the national appeal of CCP. Focus on peasant revolution brought him into conflict with Stalin. Peasants were the future - their concerns were legitimate. Promise of economic development - land reform, social policies - education and women’s rights.