| Marx’s theory of primitive accumulation of capital is a fundamental component of his philosophical thought.This theory investigates the origins of the development of the European bourgeoisie in the 19 th century,delves into the prehistory of the bourgeoisie,and explores the future development of capitalism.The historical phenomenon of primitive accumulation of capital has been present in European society since the 15 th century and played a crucial role in making the bourgeoisie the rulers of European society and establishing capitalism as the dominant system.Marx’s study of primitive accumulation of capital is extensive,including works such as "Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts of 1844," "Outlines of the Critique of Political Economy," "The German Ideology," and "The Grundrisse." As Marx’s understanding of European capitalist society deepened,his research shifted from the dominant position of private property to the study of productive forces.In Volume One of "Capital," Marx refined the theory of primitive accumulation of capital and clarified the characteristics of the early stages of capitalism.Marx believed that in order to expand capital and accumulate wealth,capitalists need to acquire a large amount of capital from non-capitalist societies through "primitive accumulation." This process requires accumulation in three areas: the establishment of a commodity economy and the accumulation of money,the establishment of a market and the accumulation of merchants,and the accumulation of labor and the exploitation of workers.Capitalists need to obtain surplus value from workers to accumulate capital,and in the early stages of capitalism,this requires depriving workers of their means of production and labor,forcing them to sell their labor power.Marx’s theoretical system on primitive accumulation of capital is based on the history of the European bourgeoisie,particularly the history of the British bourgeoisie.He combined philosophy and economic thought,using historical materialism to explain the historical phenomenon of primitive accumulation of capital.This theory investigates the historical origins of the European bourgeoisie and explores the future of capitalism.The historical phenomenon of primitive accumulation of capital played a crucial role in making the bourgeoisie the rulers of European society and establishing capitalism.Marx’s extensive research on this topic includes various works,and his understanding of European capitalist society shifted to the study of productive forces.Marx’s theory is still relevant today in explaining the development of the bourgeoisie and the fate of capitalism because many developing countries have embarked on the path of primitive accumulation of capital,which poses challenges to labor-capital relations,wealth distribution,and inequality.Therefore,Marx’s theory of primitive accumulation of capital is meaningful for how to deal with this double-edged sword. |
