Why Did Karl Marx Refrain from Identifying as a Marxist?

After a session of the International Working Men's Association, now known as the First International, in 1881, Karl Marx wrote a letter to Paul Lafargue, a comrade and member of the First International. In this letter, Marx expressed his reservations about being labeled as a 'Marxist.'

“If anything is certain about me It is that I am not a Marxist.” (Cited in Smith, 2023)

Marx was well aware of the power of labels, recognizing that any label carries implications and connotations that can overshadow the core ideas and personality of the person behind it. This attitude reflects his preference for being perceived as a political philosopher rather than a follower of an ideological school.

Marxism: A Distinct Ideology

The term 'Marxism' emerged as a result of the intellectual environment Marx operated in, driven in part by followers like Henry Hyndman of the British Social Democratic Federation. Marx, however, was astute enough to distance himself from this label, ensuring his work was not narrowly defined by the interpretations of his followers.

“Hyndman calls himself a Marxist if he is a Marxist then I'm definitely not one.” (Cited in Marx and Engels, 1881)

What Marx emphasized was the importance of historical context and the evolution of thought. He believed that his principles were fluid and open to interpretation, unlike the rigid and often cult-like devotion seen in his followers. This distinction highlights the nuanced difference between Marx as a thinker and 'Marxism' as a label applied to followers.

Communism Marxist Ideals

Communism, as a concept, predated Marx. Both Marx and Frederick Engels famously wrote the Communist Manifesto, though Marx himself did not coin the term 'Communist.' Regardless, the term 'Communist' has evolved, and many of those who identify as Communists also identify as Marxists, especially in the context of the organized communist movements.

While 'Communist' often implies 'Marxist' in a broad context, the two terms are not always synonymous. Other forms of communism, such as Christian communism and utopian communism, existed prior to Marxist communism, emphasizing different ideals and practices.

Marx's Use of Language and Self-Identification

Marx saw himself primarily as a political philosopher, a dialectical materialist, and a critic of capitalism. He likely would not have objected to the terms 'Scientific Socialist' or 'Communist,' given his involvement with various Communist organizations and his use of the term in the Communist Manifesto.

Conclusion

The distinction between 'Marxism' and 'Communism' is important for understanding the history and evolution of Marxist thought. Marx's reluctance to be labeled 'Marxist' was a mark of his integrity and his recognition of the fluidity and complexity of his ideas. As such, the impact of his work extends far beyond labels, influencing generations of thinkers, activists, and political movements around the world.