Das Kapital: Who Wrote This Influential Book?
Das Kapital, a foundational text in critique of political economy, remains a significant work for understanding capitalism. But who penned this monumental book?
The Author Behind Das Kapital
Das Kapital was written by Karl Marx, a German philosopher, economist, sociologist, and revolutionary socialist. He dedicated a large part of his life to studying and critiquing the capitalist system. His analysis in Das Kapital provides a detailed examination of capital accumulation, wage labor, and the inherent contradictions within capitalism.
Marx's Collaborator: Friedrich Engels
While Karl Marx is the primary author, Friedrich Engels played a crucial role in the publication of Das Kapital. After Marx's death in 1883, Engels edited and published the second and third volumes based on Marx's notes. Engels' contribution was vital in bringing Marx's complete vision to the public.
Key Concepts Explored in Das Kapital
- Surplus Value: Marx's theory of surplus value explains how capitalists extract profit from workers' labor.
- Commodity Fetishism: This concept describes how commodities in capitalism are valued for their exchange value rather than their use value, leading to a distorted perception of economic relations.
- Capital Accumulation: Marx analyzes how capital accumulates over time, leading to concentration of wealth and economic crises.
The Enduring Legacy
Das Kapital continues to be studied and debated in academic and political circles. Its insights into the dynamics of capitalism remain relevant for understanding contemporary economic issues such as inequality, globalization, and economic crises.
Understanding the author and the context in which Das Kapital was written provides a deeper appreciation of its profound impact on social and economic thought.
