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Single Idea 24306

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / D. Ideologies / 11. Capitalism]

Full Idea

The bourgeoisie has at last, since the establishment of modern industry and the world market, conquered for itself, in the modern representative state, exclusive political sway.

Gist of Idea

The bourgeoisie now control society, through modern industry and markets

Source

Karl Marx (Collected works (w Engels) - 50 vols [1860], Vol 6: 486), quoted by Jaime Edwards/Brian Leiter - Marx 3.2

A Reaction

This idea has endured and led to hatred of the middle classes, and even their extermination. And yet surely if the proletariat gain power and wealth, they become bourgeois? This is all outmoded by the modern super-rich.

Book Reference

Edwards,J/Leiter,B: 'Marx' [Routledge 2025], p.61