A Revolutionary Idea

Abstract

This chapter shows that Marx's communist party is about something much greater than a mere assembly of individuals. It is linked to an idea about revolutionary inevitability. As an expression of the looming specter of communism rather than a mundane organization, the party comes into being as a result of social and economic forces that transcend the interests of any specific person. It offers its members the privilege of riding atop an advancing wave of events. To be included in this community, Karl Marx suggests, one must only decide to be on the right side of history and join the workers who are moving humanity forward.