Karl Marx is one of the founding fathers of international theories, whose ideas are still being used in today’s society to drive the socio-economic and political growth of the society. Marx propounded the theory of socialism and modern capitalist society, which offers paths and models to societal development and economic growth. According to the study conducted by Davenport (2011), Marx argued that the problems faced in modern society could be traceable to some of the sources of the real material of life. In this aspect, Marx argued that the problem of society was the existence of the structure of capitalism and, therefore, the solution was to dismantle the structure by mass action and replace it with a socialist system. Davenport (2011) stated Marx believed the concept of socialism posited society could escape the self-destruction nature, which has to establish by the capitalist socioeconomic system. The system of Marxism intends to dismantle the social class structure existing both at the local and international levels. The focus of this paper is to evaluate Karl Marx’s theory of socialism in international relations.
The concepts of Marxism are linked to the ideals of contributing what is believed as a greater good to the environment and mankind. As stated by Griffiths, Roach, and Solomon (2008), people’s interests should be the main focus of a government to ensure that people’s driven policies are enacted and the needs of mankind are met. It is the aspect of looking for the interest of everyone in society to ensure that a just environment is created for mankind. As argued by Davenport (2011), Marxism theory intends to dismantle the capitalist system because it is no longer sustainable in modern society. The aspect of socialism is designed to ensure that human needs are satisfied instead of creating private profit. Karl Marx believed that the ideal of profit-driven practice by corporations and other organizations under the umbrella of the capitalist system destroyed humanity and, therefore, socialism was the alternative policy to drive the social growth of humanity.
Under the concept of a socialist international regime, societies are supposed to work together to make sure that basic human needs were achieved on a global scale (Griffiths, Roach & Solomon, 2008). The concept of socialism driven by Karl Marx is designed to look at the interest of the general society rather than a certain class. It is, therefore, ensures a government takes interest in the people through efficient provision of most of the basic needs required by the people. This includes the provision of better healthcare services and other welfare support required by the general public.
Marxism or socialism is felt by many countries across the world today, with such states as Israel, Vietnam, Cuba, and anchoring the system in the society. Davenport (2011) stated that the concept of Marxism appeared in the early 1960s. This period witnessed the shift of policies from traditional imperialism and capitalism to a friendlier policy for the common person. The concept is driven by Karl Marx exclusively advocating for institutions to prioritize human needs over private profit. The ideal has contributed immensely to the social change in society. The concept focuses on the key interest of people despite their social status in society. Marx emphasizes the equal provision of economic empowerment of people and ensuring that the environment is preserved for sustainability (Griffiths, Roach & Solomon, 2008). The Marxist states that people deserve to be treated equally and the interest of the general public should be the main focus of a government.
Governments across the world should, therefore, formulate economic, political, and social policies that address the needs of people in society. In a political context, Karl Marx drives the nation of inclusivity and participation by everyone for both economic and social benefits. Griffiths, Roach and Solomon (2008) argued that imperialism caused geopolitical conflict and this could be easier to be resolved using the socialism concept. Political representations are insignificant without economical empowerment and therefore, Marx believed that people’s interest is covered through proper representation. Karl Marx illustrated that the element of control should not be left to corporations. The aspect is driven by the belief that a man should be manipulated by the bureaucracy, even if it means the bureaucracy is controlling the whole economy but not the corporation. It championed economic empowerment and control by the state rather than corporations. This is meant to ensure that the interest or needs of the people could be served.
In conclusion, the concept of socialism by Karl Marx in international relations establishes the element of equality and justice for everyone. It points out that clearly, governments should ensure the environment is safeguarded, and the needs of people are catered for efficiently. As the population continues to increase globally, sustainability becomes precarious. The concept of Marxism remains a key topic of discussion for leaders and other individuals who are advocating human needs to be prioritized over private profit earned by corporations and other organizations. The idea was derived to have a well-fed society, and this has been the core driving force of Karl Marx.
References
Davenport, A. (2011). Marxism in IR: Condemned to a realist fate? European Journal of International Relations, 23(3), 27–48. Web.
Griffiths, M., Roach, S., & Solomon, S. (2008). Fifty key thinkers in international relations. Routledge Publisher.