Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ma-ke-si
In today’s world, the ideas of Karl Marx, regardless of one’s personal stance, have become an undeniable part of our collective intellectual heritage. As the influential philosopher Jacques Derrida noted, we are all, in some way, inheritors of Marx and Marxism, whether we realize it or not. This Coursera course, ‘理解马克思’ (Understanding Marx), offers a compelling journey into the mind of this pivotal figure.
The course provides a concise overview of Marx’s intellectual development through a contemporary lens. It strategically focuses on three of his most seminal works: ‘Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts of 1844,’ ‘The Communist Manifesto,’ and ‘Das Kapital’ (Capital). Through comparative analysis, the course elucidates methods for understanding Marx’s thought and showcases its enduring influence on our modern world.
The learning experience is structured to be engaging and accessible. Learners will primarily engage with instructional videos, typically divided into 5-8 segments per lecture, each lasting between 8 to 16 minutes. Complementary learning materials, including excerpts from original texts and academic papers, are provided. The self-paced learning is reinforced through assignments and tests, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of the material.
The syllabus delves into key aspects of Marx’s life and work. It begins by contextualizing Marx as a product of his era, tracing his intellectual journey to the forefront of German and European thought, culminating in the development of historical materialism. The course then explores Marx’s maturation as a thinker through his critique of political economy, acknowledging the impact of his collaboration with Engels while also noting their differences.
A significant portion is dedicated to ‘Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts of 1844,’ exploring the debates surrounding the ‘young Marx’ and the concept of alienated labor. The course emphasizes the value of revisiting these early writings for a scientific understanding of Marx’s intellectual progression and contemporary relevance.
‘The Communist Manifesto’ is presented as a crucial political document, with the course tracing its origins within the revolutionary context of 1848. It examines the Manifesto’s historical impact, including its transformation of China, and argues that while specific conclusions may be dated, the utopian ideals it inspired continue to guide humanity.
Finally, ‘Das Kapital’ is highlighted as the crystallization of Marx’s lifelong intellectual labor. The course asserts its undiminished contemporary value and vitality, offering a scientific framework for understanding pressing modern issues such as wealth inequality, economic and financial crises, and ecological challenges within contemporary capitalism.
Overall, ‘理解马克思’ is a highly recommended course for anyone seeking to engage with the foundational ideas that have shaped political and economic discourse for centuries. It offers a balanced, accessible, and intellectually stimulating approach to understanding one of history’s most influential thinkers.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ma-ke-si