Towards a General Theory of Objectivisation

This is very work-in-progress.

Introduction

It is difficult to reconcile the works of Marx, Engels, and their successors with the experiences of the people who lived under 'Actually Existing Socialism'. The applied philosophy of Lenin and Stalin claimed to solve the basic human problems of alienation and exploitation, yet workers under socialism often felt just as alienated as those exploited by the bourgeoisie.

A general theory of knowledge aims to make steps towards reconciling the idealist dialectics of Hegel with the material applications of Marx, reformulating a 'Materialist Hegelianism'. A unified general structure of knowledge can be formulated, and the inevitable conclusion is shown to be objectification - what Marx calls alienation.

• Dialectics of Subject and Object

The general structure of objective information is expounded, and examples are given. The interrelationship between subject and object is elucidated.

• Ideological Objectivisation under Leninism-Stalinism

The philosophical progression from Marx to Lenin to Stalin makes the process of objectification very explicit, and deserves analysis.

• 'Market Ontology,' Hayek and Ideological Objectification under Capitalism

Liberalism and market logic present a parallel process with the same general structure. Hayek observes it but misidentifies it.

• The Pivot to Materialism

The materialist origin of this theory cannot be forgotten. The general structure is ideological, but its roots are in the material struggles of the societies which create them.

• Conclusion