Economic systems and theory of human nature: Aristotle, Adam Smith, and Karl Marx

Abstract

By ‘applying’ the Hegelian Dialectic, Marx views communism as society without contradiction; according to this rationale, he conceptualizes the ‘common essence’ (Gemeinwesen) of human nature and the ‘joy’ of labour. However, an analysis and comprehensive summary of communism itself ought to show what kind of society is actually formed by communism.

Keywords:

• Marx
• Aristotle
• Adam Smith
• dialectic
• communism
• common essence (Gemeinwesen)
• labour

Acknowledgements

This article is supported by JSPS Asia Core Program.