Summary
The Communist Manifesto reflects an attempt to explain the goals of Communism,
as well as the theory underlying this movement. It argues that class struggles,
or the exploitation of one class by another, are the motivating force behind all
historical developments. Class relationships are defined by an era's means of
production. However, eventually these relationships cease to be compatible
with the developing forces of production. At this point, a revolution occurs
and a new class emerges as the ruling one. This process represents the "march
of history" as driven by larger economic forces.
Modern Industrial society in specific is characterized by class conflict between
the bourgeoisie and proletariat. However, the productive forces of
capitalism are quickly ceasing to be compatible with this exploitative
relationship. Thus, the proletariat will lead a revolution. However, this
revolution will be of a different character than all previous ones: previous
revolutions simply reallocated property in favor of the new ruling class.
However, by the nature of their class, the members of the proletariat have no
way of appropriating property. Therefore, when they obtain control they will
have to destroy all ownership of private property, and classes themselves will
disappear.
The Manifesto argues that this development is inevitable, and that capitalism is
inherently unstable. The Communists intend to promote this revolution, and will
promote the parties and associations that are moving history towards its natural
conclusion. They argue that the elimination of social classes cannot come about
through reforms or changes in government. Rather, a revolution will be
required.
The Communist Manifesto has four sections. In the first section, it discusses
the Communists' theory of history and the relationship between proletarians and
bourgeoisie. The second section explains the relationship between the
Communists and the proletarians. The third section addresses the flaws in
other, previous socialist literature. The final section discusses the
relationship between the Communists and other parties.
