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The Epic Interactive Encyclopedia 1998
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Epic Interactive Encyclopedia, The - 1998 Edition (1998)(Epic Marketing).iso
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Marxism
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1992-09-03
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Philosophical system, developed by the
19th-century German social theorists Marx and
Engels, also known as dialectical
materialism, under which matter gives rise to
mind (materialism) and all is subject to
change (from dialectic; see Hegel). As
applied to history, it supposes that the
succession of feudalism, capitalism,
socialism, and finally the classless society
is inevitable. The stubborn resistance of any
existing system to change necessitates its
complete overthrow in the class struggle - in
the case of capitalism, by the proletariat -
rather than gradual modification. Social and
political institutions progressively change
their nature as economic developments
transform material conditions. The orthodox
belief is that each successive form is
`higher' than the last; perfect socialism is
seen as the ultimate rational system, and it
is alleged that the state would then wither
away. Marxism has proved one of the most
powerful and debated theories in modern
history, inspiring both dedicated exponents
(Lenin, Trotsky, Stalin, Mao) and bitter
opponents. It is the basis of communism.