Marx, Marxism and the Question of Eurocentrism

This book explores the debate between postcolonial critics of Marxism and defenders of Marx, arguing that Marx's work should be assessed differently, including less known manuscripts, and reconsidering elements such as ethnocentrism, Orientalism, false universalism, and the neglect of modernity's global entanglement. It presents two opportunities: deconstructing Marx's Eurocentrism and recognizing his growing awareness of global developments and cosmopolitan struggles.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book serves as a crucial intermediary between postcolonial perspectives that critique Marxist approaches (and Marx's writings) for their Eurocentrism and those who defend Marx, arguing that this accusation is a myth. Through diverse contributions to this volume, Kolja Lindner advocates for a nuanced evaluation of Marx's entire oeuvre, encompassing lesser-known manuscripts, and a theoretical reconstruction of various elements that have fallen under the scrutiny of postcolonial critique. These elements include ethnocentrism, Orientalism, false universalism, and the neglect of modernity's interconnectedness on a global scale.

Against this backdrop, two significant opportunities emerge simultaneously. Firstly, Marx's Eurocentrism can be dismantled, revealing his growing awareness of global developments and cosmopolitan struggles. Secondly, his theoretical framework can be reevaluated, incorporating insights from postcolonial critiques to enhance our understanding of historical processes and social structures.

By engaging with these critical perspectives, this book offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue between Marxism and postcolonialism, promoting a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the world. It encourages readers to explore the complexities of Marx's ideas and to engage with the broader social and political contexts in which they were produced, ultimately contributing to a more comprehensive and critical analysis of our contemporary world.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030818258
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022