The Marxist Theoretical Tradition: One View

Abstract:

A plenary presentation at the historic 1989 conference, Marxism Now: Traditions and Difference, held at the U of Massachusetts and attended by 1,500 scholars. It is argued that the Marxian theoretical tradition is far from perishing or fading. Rather, it is undergoing a period of intense debate and change. A brief survey of historically major debates, changes, and causes of change within the Marxist theoretical tradition leads to the primary focus on the present conjuncture of Marxist theoretical tradition in the US. Previously predominant theories within the tradition are giving way to the reemergence of formerly dissident Marxist theories, and to the formulation of new Marxist theories. Major developments in twentieth-century non-Marxist thought are being systematically confronted and interrogated for their relevance to and transformation into the Marxist tradition, many for the first time. Individuals and movements allied with theories losing their predominance within the tradition are frightened by and hostile toward those participating in the new directions within Marxism now taking shape. The contours and stakes of the main contestations within the Marxist tradition today are delineated. AA

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