From imperialism to ultra-imperialism: 100 years of Karl Kautsky

The imminence of World War I sparked heated debate between theories that sought to explain the causes and consequences of those conflicts. Among the leading thinkers of the time, Karl Kautsky, editor of Die Neue Zeit magazine, was considered the foremost disciple of Marx and Engels, exerting great social influence through his articles. And it was in 1914 that, through the articles Imperialism and War, Ultra-Imperialism, and Preparation for Peace, Kautsky defined his interpretation and expectations regarding that moment. The content of these articles is essential for anyone who wants to study or at least learn about the author and the 20th century. The controversial phrase "capitalists of the world, unite!" which would give meaning to his concept of ultra-imperialism, may be prophetic and has either been fulfilled or is closer to that. With an interpretation of the contemporary world based on these articles, it is possible to take a critical look at the historical development of the last 100 years.

Autorentext

Graduated in Economic Sciences and Master's student in Social Sciences, both from the Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho. He has experience in the field of criticism of orthodox economics, with an emphasis on Marx, Lenin, Kautsky, Economic Sociology, and Pierre Bourdieu.