Sociology 401
Sociological Theory
Fall 2001
Dr. Scott Schaffer

Discussion Questions, Week 11: Marx, “Manifesto of the Communist Party,” “Critique of the Gotha Program,” and others (MER pp. 469-500, 522-49)

Due Date: Wed Nov 14/2001.

1. In the “Manifesto,” what does Marx say is the most important force for the improvement of the situation of the proletariat? What aspects of his theoretical background lead him to this conclusion, and why?

2. For Marx, class consciousness does not arise out of nowhere, but rather is the result of what important part of bourgeois society? Why does the bourgeoisie provide the proletariat with the tools the proletariat needs to bring about the destruction of capitalist society?

3. What is the reasoning Marx develops in claiming that the theory of the Communists must be “the abolition of private property” (p. 484)? What does he want to introduce in the place of private property?

4. What general criticisms does Marx level against other socialist parties’ platforms? The position of the communist party vis-à-vis the proletariat, both national and international? Why does Marx argue for this position?

5. Develop the basic argument of the “Critique of the Gotha Program.” What aspects of the “Manifesto” does Marx use to criticize the Gotha program?

6. Marx’s ultimate goal in the development of communism is for the social maxim to be “From each according to his ability, to each according to his needs.” (p. 531) How does “the dictatorship of the proletariat” (p. 538) help to bring about this state of affairs? Leaving Marx’s terminology aside, can a non-violent proletarian revolution bring this state into being?

7. Integrate the comments Marx makes in “After the Revolution” with the rest of the readings for this week. How do his comments there flesh out Marx’s theory of what is to come after the demise of capitalism and the position of the state (as we think of it) in a communist (or at least post-capitalist) society?