Podcast: Karl Marx: The Philosopher Who Shaped the 20th Century

Karl Marx, a central figure of the 19th century, transcends the image of a simple philosopher. His work as an economist, historian, sociologist, journalist and political theorist makes him one of the most influential thinkers in modern history. Born in Trier, Prussia, in 1818, Marx left a legacy that resonates to this day, with his ideas shaping the course of revolutions and social movements around the globe. The basis of his thinking lies in historical materialism, the belief that material and economic conditions, not ideas, are the driving forces of history. This perspective led him to formulate the theory of class struggle, an incessant conflict between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat, the ruling class and the working class, respectively. His magnum opus, “Capital”, published in 1867, is a fierce critique of the capitalist system, exposing its contradictions, the exploitation of labor, inequality and alienation. In contrast, Marx envisioned a communist society, free of classes, private property and the State, an ideal that inspired regimes and movements throughout the 20th century. His collaboration with Friedrich Engels was fundamental to the dissemination of his ideas. Together, they published the “Communist Manifesto” in 1848, a call to action that inflamed the revolutionary spirit of the time. Marx’s personal life, marked by challenges and hardships, did not prevent him from dedicating himself to his work, and he died in London in 1883, leaving a legacy that continues to provoke debate and reflection on society and the future of humanity. The final chronologies highlight the philosophical and historical context in which Marx was inserted, highlighting his ability to articulate critical and transformative thought, which places him as one of the most important thinkers in modern history.