Socialism in the 21st Century: An Introduction to Marxism

This course will provide an introduction to socialist politics and the ideas of Marxism.

*FIRST MEETING: Monday, September 28, 7pm, Blegen 115, West Bank, University of Minnesota

The current global economic crisis has led to a growing questioning of capitalism and increased interest in Marxism. Merriam-Webster reports that socialism was the third most searched-for term during 2008 in their online dictionary. Sales of The Communist Manifesto have skyrocketed, with Amazon.com reporting a 700% increase since the banking collapse.

While many have sought to dismiss socialism and Marxism as outdated, the growing polarization of wealth, brutal wars, environmental devastation, and global instability that have accompanied the current wave of corporate globalization have even forced many in the corporate media to acknowledge that Marx’s analysis – that capitalism leads to war, inequality, crisis, etc. – may have been right.

This class will provide an opportunity for participants to read and discuss some classic works of Marxism and get a basic understanding of Marxist analysis. At the same time, understanding that Marxism is not a rigid dogma, but a guide to action, we will focus on how to apply Marxist ideas in today’s world.

The class will meet every week or two, depending on people’s schedules, at a location yet to be determined. Topics examined will include Marxist analyses of economics, history, philosophy, the state, religion, the environment, alienation, women’s oppression, the media, and more. In addition to short lectures and a focus on discussion among class participants, the course will include movies and guest speakers. This course assumes no prior knowledge and is intended for anyone who would like an introduction to Marxism.