February 21, 1848. 'Communist Manifesto' - 'Smuggling Ideas' and Relativization of Morality
The article discusses the implications of the Communist Manifesto, emphasizing its calls for revolution and violence despite its idealistic portrayal by its supporters.
The article reflects on the historical significance of the Communist Manifesto, released on February 21, 1848, in London by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. While proponents of communism often depict it as a benevolent and idealistic theory, the Manifesto itself advocates for revolutionary violence, the destruction of traditional family structures, atheism, and a relativization of morality. This inherent contradiction raises important questions about the true nature of the communist ideology and its historical consequences.
In the preamble of the Manifesto, a conflict against the ruling powers of the time is articulated, identifying the coalition of forces—ranging from the Pope and Russian Tsar to European radicals—united in their opposition to the emergence of communist thought. The very day after the Manifesto's publication triggered one of the first European revolutions in France, suggesting that its influence may have catalyzed broader revolutionary sentiments across the continent. This sudden upheaval in 1848 marked a pivotal moment, intertwining the publication of ideological texts with actual political change.
The policies outlined in the Manifesto, described as socialism or communism, include more radical propositions such as the abolition of private property and the establishment of a classless society. These revolutionary ideas have evoked varied interpretations and reactions over the years, shaping political discourse and movements in the 19th and 20th centuries. Understanding the origins and messages of the Communist Manifesto is crucial in analyzing its long-lasting impact on both political theory and practical governance in various contexts throughout history.