Marx wrote some of the most influential and the most divisive theories in the history of philosophy. In this course we will critically evaluate the core themes in his philosophical writings and debate their applicability to contemporary social and political issues. We will read selections from Marx’s major critics—including challenges from both the right and left as well as examining the historical successes and failures of nominally Marxist political movements—and attempt to achieve a balanced evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of Marx’s legacy for the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. We will place special emphasis on Marx’s treatment of technology as it relates to artificial intelligence and other emerging innovations.

This course is intended for philosophy majors, but advanced students from other disciplines can contact nick.smith@unh.edu to discuss enrollment.