Swampside Chats
#86 - Close Reading: "Principles of Communism" (Part 1)
Feb 23, 2019
Friedrich Engels, author of 'The Principles of Communism,' discusses the definition of communism and its aim to organize society for the freedom of every member. They explore the sale of labor, exploitation of petty bourgeois workers, and the transition to capitalism. The chapter also delves into the differences between proletarians and slaves, as well as capitalism's plausible deniability and the challenges in recognizing its impact on society.
54:59
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Quick takeaways
- The industrial revolution led to the rise of the bourgeoisie as the dominant class and the growing discontent of the proletariat prepared the ground for a proletarian social revolution.
- Proletarians differ from slaves and serfs in their daily sale of labor and cash relation with their employer, while having the potential to free themselves through the proletarian movement.
Deep dives
The Consequences of the Industrial Revolution and the Division of Society
The industrial revolution led to the destruction of the old system of manufacture based on hand labor, revolutionizing semi-barbarian countries and bringing them into contact with the world market. It also led to the rise of the bourgeoisie as the dominant class, displacing the aristocracy and guild masters. At the same time, the proletariat grew in numbers and developed a consciousness of their own strength. The growing discontent and worsening conditions of the proletariat prepared the ground for a proletarian social revolution.
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