Althusser's structuralism and a theory of class

Stewart, A. B.R. (2009) Althusser's structuralism and a theory of class. Critique: Journal of Socialist Theory, 36(3), pp. 421-443. (doi: 10.1080/03017600802434524)

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Abstract

Structural Marxism avoids many of the reductionist tendencies within Marxism. However, its lack of a theory of class means that it can be viewed as a form of ‘mechanism’. A reinterpretation of structural Marxism and Sartre in light of a subject/object dialectic creates a synthesis of the two. The synthesis shows how structural Marxism gives classes their form but does not completely determine their function. Sartre's work provides a better understanding of function. Finally, the synthesi also managed to overcome problems within Poulantzas's theory of class at the state level, which was based on an incorrect assumption that there is a direct link between economic and political actors.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Stewart, Dr Alasdair
Authors: Stewart, A. B.R.
Subjects:J Political Science > JC Political theory
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Urban Studies
Journal Name:Critique: Journal of Socialist Theory
ISSN:0301-7605
ISSN (Online):1939-9138
Published Online:07 May 2009
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2008 Critique
First Published:First published in Critique: Journal of Socialist Theory 36(3):421-443
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher

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