47 pages • 1 hour read
The German Ideology
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Book Brief
585
Book • Nonfiction
1840s
1932
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The German Ideology by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, written in 1846 but published in 1932, critiques the Young Hegelians and argues that material circumstances shape social life and consciousness. The book outlines Marx's theory of historical materialism, asserting that economic structures drive ideological changes. It has three sections: an introduction to political economy, critiques of idealist philosophers, and critiques of German socialism.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Reviews of The German Ideology by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels highlight its foundational impact on Marxist theory, praising its deep analysis of historical materialism. Critics note the dense and sometimes difficult prose, which can be challenging for readers. However, the work’s intellectual rigor and historical significance make it indispensable for serious students of political theory.
Who Should Read The German Ideology?
Ideal for readers interested in political theory, philosophy, and socio-economic critiques, The German Ideology by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels suits those who favor works like Das Kapital or The Communist Manifesto. Academics exploring Marxist theory and historical materialism will find it particularly engaging.
Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel
Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel
An influential German philosopher known for his idealist analysis, whose concepts of history and the dialectic influenced Marx and Engels's writings.
Ludwig Feuerbach
Ludwig Feuerbach
A post-Hegelian philosopher whose materialist views and critique of religion and Christianity are analyzed by Marx and Engels.
Max Stirner
Max Stirner
A philosopher and author of "The Ego and Its Own," whose ideas on individual autonomy and critiques of religion are extensively critiqued by Marx and Engels.
585
Book • Nonfiction
1840s
1932
Adult
18+ years
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