The Inherent Contradictions of the Theory of Alienated Labor
摘要
This chapter examines the inherent contradictions within the theory of alienated labor and discusses the necessity and inevitability of transitioning to the materialist view of history. The internal contradiction of the theory of alienated labor lies in the fact that its critique remains at the level of philosophical abstraction, failing to fully integrate with the concrete socioeconomic structure. In analyzing the theory of alienated labor, Marx points out that while it contains humanistic elements, it does not comprehensively reveal capitalist society and the laws of historical development. Through his critique of Hegel and Feuerbach, he gradually shifts toward the materialist view of history, uncovering the dialectical laws of social development. Although Marx’s theory of alienated labor is influenced by Feuerbach’s humanism, his exploration of the abolition of private property lays the foundation for the materialist view of history. By engaging in economic studies, Marx objectifies alienated labor, exposes the fundamental contradiction between labor and capital, and advances the materialist view of history by proposing that material production determines social development. Marx criticizes the idealistic essence of Hegel’s theory of alienation while assimilating its rational dialectical elements. By establishing the concept of labor as practice, he provides methodological support for the materialist view of history.