The State and Social Revolution

In the chapter, Bakunin challenges Marx and Engel’s socialist ideas which advocate the conquest of proletariat political power (29). They call upon the working class to overthrow the bourgeoisie and share the power and advantages of dominating and governing the rural caste (Bakunin 30). Because of the author, it will not succeed until all classes and strength that the state represents are rebellious and destroyed by the workers. Bakunin, however, disputes this idea arguing that seizure of political and economic dominance by the industrial laborers of the towns would only lead to the exploitation of the masses represented by the individuals living in the countryside.  He suggests a universal emancipation of the masses represented by them regardless of their nation and degree of civilization (Bakunin 32). According to him, total emancipation of the populace is portrayed by liberty and solidarity. It is guaranteed by eradicating any forms of control propagated by the socialists (Bakunin 33).

According to Marx and Engel, the political situation in any country is subject to the economic condition prevalent. Consequently, it can only improve when the economic condition transforms and enhances for the better. Bakunin (30) summons this reflection reckoning that Marx ignores the role played by religious, political and judicial systems in any economic environment.

While the idea of a complete emancipation of the masses is noble, it is highly unrealistic and unattainable. The intention of eradicating all forms of governance and political laws would be a recipe for chaos and injustice whereby the less fortunate in the society are exploited by those with greater financial and social resources. The beliefs of revolutionary anarchists as presented in this chapter would be a threat to the ruling bourgeoisie. As a result, the populace would only attain complete liberation by war or violence. The latter is the situation that would be detrimental to the bourgeoisie and the proletariats. However, it is necessary to find a balance between the needs of the middle and working classes for peace and economic sustainability.

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Work Cited

Bakunin, Mikhail. Marxism, Freedom, and the State. Kessinger Pub, 2004.