Marxism vs. Naziism

Attribute	Marxism	Naziism
Founder	Karl Marx	Adolf Hitler
Belief in class struggle	Yes	No
Belief in racial superiority	No	Yes
Economic system	Communism	Fascism
Role of the state	Withers away in communism	Centralized control in fascism

Origins

Marxism, developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels 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 advocates for the eventual overthrow of the capitalist system and the establishment of a classless society where the means of production are owned collectively. On the other hand, Nazism, also known as National Socialism, emerged in Germany in the early 20th century under the leadership of Adolf Hitler. It is a far-right ideology that promotes extreme nationalism, racism, and authoritarianism.

Economic Systems

Marxism advocates for a socialist economic system where the means of production are owned and controlled by the workers. It aims to eliminate private property and create a society where resources are distributed based on need rather than profit. In contrast, Nazism supports a form of state capitalism where the government controls the economy but allows for private ownership. However, under Nazism, the state intervenes heavily in economic affairs to promote the interests of the nation and the ruling party.

Class Struggle

Marxism views history as a series of class struggles, with the proletariat eventually rising up against the bourgeoisie to establish a communist society. It sees the working class as the revolutionary force that will bring about social change and equality. On the other hand, Nazism rejects the idea of class struggle and instead emphasizes the unity of the nation. It promotes the idea of a racially pure and homogenous society where all citizens work together for the common good of the nation.

Racism and Nationalism

Marxism is a universalist ideology that transcends national boundaries and emphasizes the solidarity of the working class across different countries. It rejects racism and nationalism as divisive tools used by the ruling class to maintain power. In contrast, Nazism is deeply rooted in racism and nationalism, promoting the superiority of the Aryan race and the need for territorial expansion to achieve Lebensraum (living space) for the German people.

Role of the State

In Marxism, the state is seen as a tool of the ruling class to maintain their power and oppress the working class. The ultimate goal of Marxism is to abolish the state once class distinctions have been eliminated and establish a stateless, classless society. On the other hand, Nazism glorifies the state as the embodiment of the nation and the will of the people. It advocates for a strong, authoritarian state led by a charismatic leader who embodies the spirit of the nation.

Views on Democracy

Marxism criticizes liberal democracy as a facade that masks the true power dynamics of capitalist society. It sees democracy as a tool used by the ruling class to legitimize their rule and maintain the status quo. In contrast, Nazism rejects democracy as weak and inefficient, favoring a totalitarian regime that can make decisions quickly and decisively in the best interests of the nation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Marxism and Nazism are two distinct ideologies with contrasting views on economics, class struggle, racism, nationalism, the role of the state, and democracy. While Marxism advocates for a classless society based on worker ownership of the means of production, Nazism promotes a racially pure and authoritarian state. Understanding the differences between these ideologies is crucial in order to recognize and combat the dangerous ideas that underpin Nazism and other forms of far-right extremism.