Skip to main content
Work with the NEU
Why do we still call it ‘Marxism’?
Marxism refers to the interpretation of human affairs in the context of the material conditions of their time and place. It remains a useful way of thinking today. The MARX MEMORIAL LIBRARY explains

“WHY is it still called ‘Marxism’? We don’t call evolutionary theory ‘Darwinism’ any more!”

A good question and the comparison with Darwin is appropriate. Darwin undertook a systematic and rigorous analysis of the evolution of the natural world and Marx did the same for the development and dynamics of human society. Each caused a revolution in its field.

But why do we still call it Marxism? There are a number of elements in the answer.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
A poster by Otto Lander designed for May 1, 1901: Proletarians of all lands, unite!
Full Marx / 2 August 2026
2 August 2026

Internationalism is deeply embedded in socialist theory and practice. Examination illuminates its complexity asserts the Marx Memorial Library and Workers’ School

Planet earth by Kevin M Gill/CC
Full Marx / 18 July 2026
18 July 2026

Nature as well as society works dialectically, asserts the Marx Memorial Library and Workers’ School

Statue of Oliver Cromwell
Full Marx / 2 February 2026
2 February 2026

The selection, analysis and interpretation of historical ‘facts’ always takes place within a paradigm, a model of how the world works. That’s why history is always a battleground, declares the Marx Memorial Library

everything
Books / 16 January 2026
16 January 2026

JOHN GREEN’s palate is tickled by useful information leavened by amusing and unusual anecdotes, incidental gossip and scare stories