Marxist Theory: Production, Class, and Ideology

According to Marxist theory, the mode of production determines the structure of society. The capitalist mode, based on the private ownership of the means of production, divides society into two antagonistic classes: the proletariat and the bourgeoisie. The nature and structure of any society are defined by the prevailing mode of production. A change in this mode of production also transforms the entire social system, including its ideas and institutions. Such a change in the mode of production constitutes a revolution.

Karl Marx analyzed the evolution of the production process across various historical societies, demonstrating how it has changed throughout history depending on the mode of production in each period. He identified two key levels: infrastructure and superstructure. The infrastructure represents the production or economic system of society, which is based on social conflicts and explains major historical changes. The superstructure, built upon this foundation, encompasses all ideological elements responsible for maintaining and justifying the existing situation. There is a dialectical relationship between infrastructure and superstructure, but the infrastructure remains the primary driver.

Ideology and Alienation

Marx affirmed a close relationship between the concealment of societal problems and contradictions, and the alienation that prevents human beings from recognizing and realizing their full potential. Marx referred to this as ideology. Ideology is produced by society as a self-defense mechanism to ensure its own stability. In a broad sense, ideology is the system of ideas or representations that a human or social class holds about itself, its place in the world, and its role in history.

Ideology can have a positive meaning, serving as the set of representations that allow individuals to identify with a social group (class consciousness). However, it loses its positive aspect when it presents a distorted and falsifying image of reality and the conditions under which humans live (false consciousness). In such cases, ideology serves the special interests of one class, often the ruling class, by promoting ideas that lead to submission. Thus, the ideas of the dominant class are used to subjugate the oppressed class. The dominant power in society is the one that exercises power, as ideology acts as the mechanism of power for the dominant social class to secure and perpetuate its rule.

Marx critiqued ideology, revealing what it conceals. He presented it as a negative force in history that hinders human realization, highlighting the necessity for its transcendence.