key term - Dictatorship of the proletariat

Definition

The dictatorship of the proletariat is a concept in Marxist theory where the working class holds political power, overthrowing the capitalist system to eventually achieve a classless society. This period is seen as a transition phase from capitalism to full communism, where the state is used to suppress remaining class distinctions.

Related terms

Marxism:

A socio-political and economic ideology that aims for a classless society through the abolition of private property and the communal ownership of means of production.

Class struggle: The conflict of interests between different social classes, often considered a driving force in historical development according to Marxist analysis.

Communism:

A political and economic ideology envisioning a society without classes or state where the community collectively owns all property and means of production