"As the class struggle sharpens in the U.S. Marxism will come into its own as a great popular study"
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C. L. R. James, a Trinidadian historian, journalist, and social theorist, was deeply engaged with Marxist viewpoint and the characteristics of class battle throughout his intellectual profession. In his quote, "As the class struggle sharpens in the U.S. Marxism will come into its own as a great popular study", James makes a prediction about the development of American society through the lens of Marxist theory.
At its core, this declaration recommends that as socio-economic tensions magnify in the United States, there will be a growing interest in Marxist concepts. The phrase "class struggle" refers to the ongoing dispute between various social classes, particularly in between the proletariat (working class) and the bourgeoisie (capitalist class). This concept is central to Marxist theory, which posits that historical and social modifications are largely driven by class conflicts and by the economic relationships that underlie society.
James's usage of "sharpens" indicates a boost in both the presence and intensity of these class disputes, possibly causing more overt and extensive disagreements over power, resources, and rights within the American socio-economic structure. In such a scenario, people and groups seeking to comprehend and navigate these unstable dynamics might turn to Marxism as a tool for analysis and a source of possible solutions.
By stating that Marxism will become a "terrific popular research study", James visualizes that Marxist theory might transition from being a niche academic interest to a mainstream framework accepted by more comprehensive segments of society. This democratization of Marxist thought recommends a shift in political awareness, with more people engaging with its concepts to explain their experiences and supporter for change.
In summary, C. L. R. James predicts the increasing relevance of Marxist thought in American society amidst intensifying class stress. He prepares for that as inequalities end up being more noticable and disputes more obvious, Marxism will be significantly valued as a structure for understanding and attending to these problems.
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