Capital, The - Abridged Edition - Karl Marx

Capital: The Abridged Edition by Karl Marx

A seminal work of economic and political philosophy that has shaped the course of history, Karl Marx's Capital is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of capitalism and its impact on society.

In this abridged edition, Marx's complex theories are presented in a clear and accessible manner, making it an ideal introduction to his groundbreaking work.

A Critique of Capitalism

At the heart of Capital is Marx's critique of capitalism, which he argues is an inherently exploitative system that leads to the impoverishment of the working class. Marx analyzes the relationship between capital and labor, demonstrating how the surplus value created by workers is siphoned off by capitalists, resulting in the accumulation of wealth in the hands of a few.

The Labor Theory of Value

Central to Marx's analysis is the labor theory of value, which posits that the value of a commodity is determined by the amount of socially necessary labor time required to produce it. This theory challenges the prevailing notion that the value of a commodity is determined by its exchange value or its ability to command other goods in the market.

The Accumulation of Capital

Marx also examines the process of capital accumulation, arguing that it is driven by the relentless pursuit of profit. As capitalists accumulate more capital, they reinvest it in their businesses, leading to increased productivity and a growing demand for labor. However, this process also results in the displacement of workers and the intensification of their exploitation.

The Class Struggle

Marx argues that the inherent contradictions of capitalism give rise to class conflict between the bourgeoisie (the owners of capital) and the proletariat (the working class). As the working class becomes increasingly impoverished and alienated from their labor, they develop a revolutionary consciousness and organize to overthrow the capitalist system.

The Future of Socialism

Marx envisions a future beyond capitalism, where the working class seizes control of the means of production and establishes a socialist society. In this society, the profit motive is replaced by the principle of cooperation, and the wealth created by workers is distributed equitably.

A Must-Read for Understanding the Modern World

Capital is a profound and influential work that has had a profound impact on economic thought and political movements around the world. Its insights into the nature of capitalism and the class struggle remain as relevant today as they were when the book was first published in 1867.

If you want to understand the world we live in, you need to read Capital.

Order your copy today and start your journey into the world of Karl Marx!