An Exploration of Marx's Idea of "Human Nature"

What is it about?

This chapter focuses on Marx’s view of human nature, exploring how individuals are shaped by their social conditions while also possessing the potential for universal development and freedom. By drawing on Aristotle’s concept of “nature”—understood as the realization of a being’s full potential—the chapter reconciles one-sided interpretations often found in debates about Marx’s idea of humanity. It elaborates Marx’s vision of human beings as rational, self-determining, and ultimately free, where freedom is seen as the essence of human nature when fully developed.

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Why is it important?

This chapter deepens our understanding of Marx’s philosophy by connecting his ideas to classical philosophy in a fresh way. By clarifying the role of freedom and rationality in Marx’s view of humanity, it makes his work more relatable and underscores its relevance to enduring questions about human development and self-determination.