Unpacking Surplus Value: Marx's Theory of Surplus Value
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Date
2024-05
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Abstract
Karl Marx's Theory of Surplus Value is central to his critique of capitalism, mainly discussed in Das Kapital. Marx argued that a commodity's value is determined by the socially necessary labour time required for its production. Workers receive wages that cover their necessary labour—the cost of their labour power—but they generate more value than they are paid for, and this extra is surplus value. Capitalists acquire surplus value by owning the means of production, paying workers less than the value they create, and retaining the difference as profit. Marx contended that this process results in labour exploitation and serves as a key driver of capitalist accumulation and class struggle. The theory emphasizes the conflict between labour and capital, making it a vital element of Marx's economic analysis.
Description
In this podcast, Prof. Sandip Rahul explores Karl Marx's theory of Surplus Value, a key part of his critique of capitalism. Learn how Marx defined surplus value, how it is extracted from labour, and its role in driving exploitation and profit. Perfect for undergraduate political science students, this discussion simplifies complex ideas into engaging insights. Join us as we examine the implications of surplus value for understanding class dynamics and economic power.
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Created by: Prof. Sandip Rahul, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, S.S. Girls' College, Gondia, Maharashtra. May 2024.
- Format: MP4, recorded with Apple Memos app, in Hindi language.
Keywords
SOCIAL SCIENCES::Social sciences::Political science
Citation
Prof. Sandip Rahul. (2024, May). Unpacking Surplus Value: Marx's Theory of Surplus Value [Audio podcast, MP4, Hindi]. Department of Political Science, S.S. Girls' College, Gondia, Maharashtra