Marxism vs. Marxist-Leninism

Attribute	Marxism	Marxist-Leninism
Founder	Karl Marx	Vladimir Lenin
Philosophy	Focuses on class struggle and the overthrow of capitalism	Builds on Marxism with emphasis on the role of the vanguard party
Economic Theory	Emphasizes the labor theory of value and the exploitation of the proletariat	Introduces the concept of state-controlled economy and planned economy
Role of the State	Believes in the eventual withering away of the state	Advocates for a strong centralized state to guide the revolution
Internationalism	Advocates for international workers' solidarity	Emphasizes the importance of spreading revolution globally

Origins and Foundations

Marxism, developed by Karl Marx in the 19th century, is a socio-political theory that focuses on the struggle between the working class (proletariat) and the ruling class (bourgeoisie). It emphasizes the need for a classless society where the means of production are owned collectively. Marxist-Leninism, on the other hand, is a political ideology that emerged from the ideas of Marx and was further developed by Vladimir Lenin. It incorporates Lenin's theories on imperialism, the vanguard party, and the dictatorship of the proletariat.

Economic Theory

Both Marxism and Marxist-Leninism advocate for the abolition of private property and the establishment of a socialist economic system where the means of production are owned by the state or the people as a whole. However, Marxist-Leninism places a greater emphasis on centralized planning and state control of the economy. Lenin believed that a strong, centralized state was necessary to guide the transition from capitalism to socialism and eventually communism.

Role of the State

One of the key differences between Marxism and Marxist-Leninism is the role of the state. While Marxism envisions a stateless society where the government withers away as class distinctions disappear, Marxist-Leninism sees the state as a tool for achieving and maintaining the dictatorship of the proletariat. Lenin argued that a strong, centralized state was necessary to defend the revolution from internal and external threats.

Revolutionary Strategy

Marxism advocates for a revolution led by the working class to overthrow the capitalist system and establish socialism. It emphasizes the importance of class consciousness and the need for a united front against the ruling class. Marxist-Leninism, on the other hand, introduces the concept of the vanguard party – a revolutionary party composed of the most class-conscious and dedicated members of the proletariat. The vanguard party is seen as the leading force in the revolution and the organizer of the working class.

Internationalism

Both Marxism and Marxist-Leninism are internationalist ideologies that call for the solidarity of the working class across national boundaries. Marx famously declared, "Workers of the world, unite!" emphasizing the need for a global revolution against capitalism. Lenin expanded on this idea by advocating for the export of revolution and supporting anti-imperialist movements in colonized countries.

Legacy and Influence

Marxism has had a profound impact on social and political thought, inspiring numerous movements and revolutions around the world. Marxist-Leninism, as a more specific and developed form of Marxism, played a key role in the establishment of socialist states in the 20th century, most notably in the Soviet Union and China. While Marxism continues to be a powerful critique of capitalism, Marxist-Leninism has been criticized for its authoritarian tendencies and the centralization of power.