Critique of Capitalism

DSA Night School

We all live under the exploitative economic system known as capitalism, but what are its internal contradictions and how can we overcome it?

The Theory of Value and Surplus Value, Ernest Mandel, An Introduction to Marxist Economic Theory
Historical Materialism, Frederich Engels, Socialism: Utopian and Scientific
Capital and Capitalism, Ernest Mandel, An Introduction to Marxist Economic Theory
Chapter 8, Karl Marx, Wage Labor and Capital
Chapter 9, Karl Marx,Wage Labor and Capital
Why We Need Socialism in America, Michael Harrington, Dissent
But at Least Capitalism Is Free and Democratic, Right?, Erik Olin Wright, Jacobin: A short response to capitalist writer Milton Friedman, in which Wright argues that capitalism is in direct conflict with the exercise of human freedom.
How to Be an Anti-Capitalist for the 21st Century, chapters 1 and 2, Erik Olin Wright: These chapters provide an introductory examination and critique of the capitalist system. Wright argues that capitalism, by its very nature, is incompatible with the ethical values of equality, freedom, and community.
Where Despots Rule, Elizabeth Anderson, Jacobin: An interview with political philosopher Elizabeth Anderson about her book Private Government. In that book, Anderson argues that the workplace constitutes a "private government" in which workers are subject to the dictatorial will of their bosses.
Understanding Capital: Marx's Economic Theory, chapters 2–4, Duncan K. Foley: A summary of some of the basics of Marx's critique of capitalism.