Question

Which of the following statements are CORRECT about Marx’s concept of historical materialism?
(A) The term historical materialism refers to the materialist conception of history.
(B) Engels credited Marx with being the originator of historical materialism.
(C) Marx contends that the political structure of society, constituted by its relations of production, is the real foundation of society.
(D) The society’s relations of production ‘corresponds to a definite stage of development of material productive forces.’
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

For theoretical questions, focus on understanding the foundational principles and apply them to analyze each statement critically.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Marx’s concept of historical materialism revolves around the materialist interpretation of history, focusing on how material conditions shape society. Here’s the analysis of each statement:

1. Statement (A): Correct. The term historical materialism indeed refers to the materialist conception of history, which emphasizes economic structures and their impact on historical development.
2. Statement (B): Correct. Engels acknowledged Marx as the originator of historical materialism, as Marx developed it into a comprehensive framework for analyzing history and society.
3. Statement (C): Incorrect. While Marx emphasized the importance of relations of production, he argued that the economic base (relations and forces of production) shapes the superstructure (political, legal, and cultural systems), not that the political structure itself is the foundation.
4. Statement (D): Correct. Marx posited that the society’s relations of production align with the development stage of material productive forces, demonstrating the dynamic relationship between the economy and society.

Thus, statements (A), (B), and (D) are correct, making option 1 the right choice.