Word: Marxism-Leninism
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: Marxism-Leninism is a political and economic theory that combines ideas from Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin. It was the guiding philosophy of the Soviet Union. This theory emphasizes that capitalism, especially in its imperialist form, creates a struggle between developed and underdeveloped countries. Lenin modified Marx's ideas to adapt them to the conditions of the Russian Revolution.
Usage Instructions:
Context: You would typically use "Marxism-Leninism" when discussing political ideologies, history, or economics, especially in relation to the Soviet Union or communist movements.
Example Sentence: "Marxism-Leninism played a crucial role in shaping the policies of the Soviet government."
Advanced Usage:
In academic discussions, you might explore how Marxism-Leninism has influenced various communist movements around the world, such as in China, Cuba, and Vietnam.
You could also analyze its impact on global politics during the Cold War.
Word Variants:
Different Meanings:
While "Marxism-Leninism" specifically refers to the political theory, "Marxism" alone could refer to the broader set of ideas developed by Karl Marx, which also includes ideas about class struggle and socialism, without necessarily including Lenin's modifications.
Synonyms:
Communism: Marxism-Leninism is often associated with communism, but communism can refer to a broader ideology.
Socialism: While related, socialism is a broader concept that may not always align with Marxism-Leninism.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "Marxism-Leninism," but if you were to discuss it, you might use phrases like "rise to power" when talking about how Marxism-Leninism influenced governments.
Summary:
Marxism-Leninism is a specific approach to understanding politics and economics that focuses on the struggles created by capitalism, particularly in terms of global inequality.