The German Ideology

How does the dialectical materialism differ from the Hegelian dialectic? Compare and contrast these two modes of reasoning.

Two of the core concepts introduced in this text are dialectical materialism and historical materialism. First, describe both concepts. Then, analyze how they function in Marxist thinking.

Throughout the text Marx and Engels use history and sociology as primary source evidence to support their arguments. How effective is this method in responding to the arguments of philosophers and economists?

Who are the Young Hegelians? Describe how the authors build their critique of either Feuerbach, Bauer, or Stirner. Is this argumentation effective?

Marx and Engels wrote The German Ideology following the industrial revolution. First, assess how the impacts of industrialism are described in this text. Second, analyze how society has changed since Marx and Engels developed this analysis.

What is Marx’s theory of history? Using one of his examples in the text as a reference point (e.g., feudalism, 19th-century bourgeoise society), describe the strengths and weaknesses of this theory.

Class conflict is an important concept in Marxist thought. Locate three examples where Marx and Engels use class conflict to build their argument. Analyze how class conflict functions in social change.

1.      Nature is referenced frequently in The German Ideology. Compare and contrast the idealist understanding of nature with the historical materialist perspective. What significance do these ideas have today in a period of increased awareness of climate crisis?