May 18, 2018
Part 1 of 2.
May 5 was the 200th anniversary of Karl Marx's birth. Over the past few years there has been a surge of interest in the 19th century philosopher and economist, who challenged capitalism and predicted that it would eventually destroy itself. But his diagnosis has turned out to be more accurate, insightful and helpful than his prescriptions. Make no mistake: Marxism may be dead, but Marx is very much alive and kicking. His insight into the way the world works has profoundly influenced academia, economics, government, social programs, the way we study and view history, and yes indeed, capitalism itself. We may not be Marxists anymore. But many of the foundations of our world and the way in which we conceive of it are built from his material.
Joining Ben on the program is Queen's sociologist Rob Beamish, who will return next week to continue the excellent conversation.
About the Guest
Dr. Rob Beamish is a Professor at Queen’s University in Kingston. In 1992 he wrote Marx, Method and the Division of Labour. After serving as the head of the Department of Sociology, Professor Beamish has since returned to work on projects related to the development of Marx’s ideas. Keep your eyes peeled for when his work hits the shelves – I’m sure it will be worth the read.