Friedrich Engels

Definition

Friedrich Engels was a German philosopher, social scientist, and political theorist best known for his collaboration with Karl Marx in developing the theory of Marxism. He played a crucial role in critiquing capitalism, emphasizing the social and economic inequalities it produced, and co-authored important works that helped shape socialist thought, connecting to the broader implications of economic theories influenced by Malthus and others.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Engels co-authored 'The Communist Manifesto' with Marx in 1848, which became one of the most influential political documents advocating for communism.
2. He provided financial support to Marx throughout his life, allowing Marx to focus on his writings without worrying about economic stability.
3. Engels' analysis of capitalism included a focus on the exploitation of labor, arguing that workers were alienated from their production due to capitalist structures.
4. He expanded upon Malthusian theory by discussing how capitalist economies contribute to overpopulation and poverty among the working class.
5. Engels later wrote 'Anti-Dühring,' a comprehensive critique of capitalism and idealism, which solidified key concepts within Marxist theory.

Review Questions

• How did Friedrich Engels contribute to the critique of capitalism alongside Karl Marx, and what were some key ideas they presented together?
  • Friedrich Engels worked closely with Karl Marx to critique capitalism by highlighting its inherent inequalities and exploitation of the working class. They argued that capitalism leads to alienation, where workers are distanced from the products of their labor. Their collaborative works, particularly 'The Communist Manifesto,' called for a revolutionary change to establish a classless society, positioning their critique as foundational to socialist ideology.
• In what ways did Engels' views expand upon or diverge from Malthusian economic thought regarding population and labor?
  • Engels acknowledged Malthusian ideas about population growth but argued that capitalism exacerbates poverty and social inequality by exploiting labor. Unlike Malthus, who emphasized natural limits to growth, Engels believed that social structures under capitalism create conditions for overpopulation and underemployment. His perspective highlighted how economic systems rather than natural laws govern societal challenges related to labor and population.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Friedrich Engels' ideas on contemporary economic thought and political movements. How do his theories continue to resonate today?
  • Friedrich Engels' theories have had a profound impact on contemporary economic thought and political movements, especially those advocating for socialism and workers' rights. His critiques of capitalism remain relevant as discussions around income inequality and labor exploitation continue to surface in modern society. The principles laid out by Engels encourage ongoing debates about economic systems, pushing for reforms that address social injustices, thus demonstrating his enduring influence on both theoretical and practical aspects of economics.

Related terms

Marxism: A socio-political and economic theory founded by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels that critiques capitalism and advocates for a classless society through revolutionary means.

Dialectical Materialism: The philosophical framework developed by Marx and Engels that emphasizes the importance of material conditions and social relations in shaping history and societal change.

The Condition of the Working Class in England: A book written by Engels that documents the harsh realities faced by the working class in industrial England, highlighting the negative effects of capitalism on laborers.