It is important to note that even Karl Marx never considered himself an Marxist! It’s in his own words. I still think that Marx’s theory on changes (Marxian Materialism et al) of economic systems is the one that is most consistent with history than any other on the issue. Also, his criticism of capitalism is the best among the rest (even pro free market magazines such as Time and Economist proclaim so).

But this is as far as I “agree” with Marx. Frankly, I am not qualified enough to disprove Marx’s other theories, particularly that of Communism.

And I certainly disagree with Leninism. The idea of the Communist Party movement is plain wrong. I reckon even Mark would have disapproved had he seen how it was done.

Also, Marx was pro freedom of speech, press etc. He was for democracy (the term “dictatorship of the proletariat” meant democracy where the majority, which he considered to be the poor, would have say, and not that the poor would be “dictators”, for that is impossible! His statement was on his belief that the current systems of democracy give excessive powers to corporations and the rich. In India, for example, the average MP is a crorepati, while the per capita income of India is barely in the tens of thousands).

Do read: http://bigotblog.wordpress.com/2008/10/24/will-capitalism-end-the-post-capitalist-world/

For the fear of some right wing nuts reading this who might pick this out of context, let me clarify: I disagree with most Marxists that followed Marx. I disagree with the Leninist forms of communist states. I have no opinion on Communism as Marx defined it, as there has never been a state like that ever, and because I don’t know enough about it. (nor do even most Marxists, because Marx died after having written only 3 volumes of Das Kapital, when in fact many were planned).

I generally support freer markets, although only if the state can successfully ensure welfare of those displaced by it.

Anyway, thanks for commenting!