Marx, socialism, and rights

ABSTRACT

This paper examines Marx's claim that socialism need not rely on a framework of rights. It is argued that this strategy fails because rights are necessary for individual autonomy. A framework of rights helps to ensure that in principle individuals can choose life plans freely. Nonetheless, Marx is right to stress that economic democracy is also a condition of individual autonomy. Finally, it is suggested that a commitment to both individual rights and economic democracy will provide a suitable framework for both pluralism and social solidarity.