2. Individual and Society: Given this description of the historical situation, what ought to be the relation of the individual to the society?
a. Obviously, the future resides with the proletarian class; and individuals who face reality will act accordingly. More important from Marx’ standpoint, however, is his claim that the communists stand in the forefront of the proletariat. “They are the ones clearly aware of the current class struggle and resolute enough to constantly push forward the working-class movement. Consequently, for Marx, becoming a communist is the best action an individual can take.
b. In passing, however, we should note that Marx does not regard his work as the construction of an ideology that will triumph through the effort of will of communists and the proletariat. Rather, he views his work as a scientific description of an historical process, which necessitates the overthrow of capitalism. For example, he writes,
The theoretical conclusions of the Communists are in no way based on ideas or principles that have been invented or discovered by this or that would-be universal reformer. They merely express, in general terms, actual relations springing from an existing class struggle, from a historical movement going on under our very eyes. (CM)
