The Influence of Materialism on Politics: An Examination Through the Lens of Karl Marx's Perspective

Dr. Shahzad Munawar Ch, Dr. Muhammad Ahtasham Jan Butt and Saira Zaka
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Dr. Shahzad Munawar Ch: Assistant Professor of Political Science, Higher Education Department, Pakistan
Dr. Muhammad Ahtasham Jan Butt: Assistant Professor Higher Education Department, Pakistan
Saira Zaka: MPhil research Scholar at University of Okara, Pakistan

Bulletin of Business and Economics (BBE), 2023, vol. 12, issue 3, 352-355

Abstract: Karl Marx's penetrating analysis of the nexus between materialism and politics offers a paradigm-shifting framework that transcends conventional political ideologies. The commodification of political processes, a cornerstone of Marx's perspective, delineates a departure from liberal theories by asserting that under capitalism, political actions become commodified tools serving the interests of the ruling class. This challenges prevailing notions of political autonomy, revealing elections and governance mechanisms as instruments perpetuating existing capitalist structures. Moreover, Marx's emphasis on class struggle as a primary force in political evolution distinguishes his perspective from conservative views, urging a scrutiny of political decisions through the lens of economic interests. The theory of alienation introduces a human dimension to political analysis, contending that capitalism estranges individuals not only from their labor but also from their essential humanity, influencing political engagement. Contrary to historical analyses emphasizing abstract notions Marx's historical materialism roots societal changes in shifts in the material conditions of production. This challenges liberal narratives highlighting that transitions such as from feudalism to capitalism are profound transformations of economic foundations that in turn shape political systems. Marx's perspective encourages a nuanced understanding of the intricate connections between materialism and politics, urging a reevaluation of the impact of economic determinants, class dynamics, human experience, and historical material conditions on the political landscape.

Keywords: Materialism; Politics; Marxism (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:rfh:bbejor:v:12:y:2023:i:3:p:352-355

DOI: 10.61506/01.00040

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