The Accumulation of Capital
By Rosa Luxemburg & Agnes Schwarzschild
- Release Date: 2024-04-12
- Genre: Economics
In "The Accumulation of Capital," Rosa Luxemburg meticulously examines the dynamics of capitalist systems, focusing on the intricate relationship between capital accumulation and imperialism. Written in 1913, the book argues that the inherent contradictions of capitalism lead to expansionist practices in search of new markets for surplus goods. Employing a rigorous dialectical method and a clear, incisive prose, Luxemburg contextualizes her arguments within Marxist theory while challenging conventional interpretations of capitalist economics. She contends that the sustainability of capitalism is contingent upon its ability to control and exploit non-capitalist societies, setting the stage for an informed discourse on global economic relations. Rosa Luxemburg, a prominent Marxist theorist and revolutionary, was deeply influenced by her experiences in the labor movement and her opposition to World War I. Her background in philosophy and economics informed her revolutionary zeal, compelling her to address the inequities of capitalist society. Luxemburg's life was characterized by her commitment to socialism and her belief in the necessity of mass action, which resonates throughout her work, especially as it critiques mainstream economic thought and offers a revolutionary perspective on capitalism's failures. "The Accumulation of Capital" is essential reading for scholars, students, and anyone engaged with economic theories and their societal implications. Luxemburg's insights remain particularly relevant today in light of global capitalism's pervasive impact. This work encourages readers to critically reflect on the historical trajectories of capitalism and the prospects of alternative economic systems.
