Marx's Theory of Labor Organization and Engels' Interpretation

Marx's Theory of Labor Organization Under Capitalism

Transformation of Capitalism

Marx proposed to transform capitalism and its organization of work to establish a classless society. He believed this was possible because capitalism, despite its inherent structure of domination, had dismantled feudal institutions and the traditional organization of labor and trade.

From Trade Organizations to Industrial Production

Traditional trade organizations, focused on craftsmanship, gave way to industrial production. This shift aimed to produce goods quickly and efficiently, leading to mass production, lower prices, and wider accessibility for the population.

Taylorism and the Individualistic Mentality

The rise of industrial production also led to the emergence of Taylorism (supply chain management). This mentality contrasted with the collective spirit of the guilds, emphasizing individualism instead.

Collective Work and Worker Empowerment

Marx saw collective work as an opportunity for workers to organize, recognize their shared situation, and challenge the control of those who owned the means of production. He believed workers could overcome their subordinate position by taking charge of their own organization.

Dialectic: An Antagonistic Relationship

Marx described the relationship between employers and employees as a dialectical one – antagonistic yet complementary. For example, while workers sought higher pay and shorter hours, and employers aimed to minimize costs, both parties relied on the continued success of the company. This inherent contradiction characterized their relationship.

Engels' Interpretation of Marx's Work

Engels' Contribution and Interpretation of Infrastructure and Superstructure

Engels played a significant role in supporting Marx's work, though Marx made the most substantial contributions. Engels' interpretation of the relationship between infrastructure (economic base) and superstructure (culture, institutions, etc.) differed from Marx's. Engels argued that the infrastructure completely determined all aspects of the superstructure.

Changing Society Through Transforming Relations of Production

According to Engels' interpretation, changing society required transforming the relations of production. As these relationships changed, the superstructure would also transform, revealing and dismantling false ideologies.

Critique of Engels' Interpretation

Engels' interpretation has been criticized for its simplicity. Critics, including Weber, pointed to the influence of superstructural elements like religion on capitalist development. For example, Weber highlighted the role of Calvinist values, particularly the work ethic and emphasis on saving over luxury, in fostering capitalism's growth in Protestant countries.

Calvinism and the Pursuit of Success

Calvinism promoted the idea that worldly success was a sign of God's favor, encouraging the pursuit of business success as a path to salvation. In contrast, Catholicism did not reject luxury and offered multiple paths to salvation, including faith and good works. This cultural difference, a superstructural element, contributed to the differential development of capitalism in different regions, challenging Engels' simplistic interpretation.