Marxism and Human Nature

Descrizione

Is there such a thing as human nature? In Marxism and Human Nature, Sean Sayers defends the controversial theory that human nature is in fact an historical phenomenon. Those who disagree with this theory counter that it leads to forms of scepticism and relativism which are at odds with morality; Sayers reveals that this need not be the case. Drawing on the work of Marx and Hegel, he develops a historical account of human needs and powers which provides the basis for a distinctive form of Marxist humanism.
According to this view, human beings are not merely passive individual consumers: they are active, social and productive beings. The first half of the book explores the essential role work plays in our lives and how it contributes to our fulfilment. The moral and social implications of these ideas are analyzed in the second half in the context of current work by both analytic and postmodernist thinkers.
Marxism and Human Nature gives an ambitious and wide ranging defence of the Marxist and Hegelian historical approach. In the process, the book engages with a wide range of work at the heart of the contemporary debate in social and moral philosophy. Clearly and engagingly written, Marxism and Human Nature will illuminate the debate for anyone engaged in politics or philosophy. It will of course be especially relevant for researchers studying Marx, Hegel or Gorz.