Can history be understood scientifically? Modern science shows us that all realms of nature are dictated by objective laws—from quantum physics to molecular biology. But most mainstream historians refuse to admit that the same is true about human society.

As Marx famously said: “Men make their own history, but they do not make it as they please.” History isn’t merely driven by the free will of great individuals. Nor is it a senseless mess, as postmodernist thinkers would have you believe. The economic structure of a given society sets the stage for historical development. Great changes in politics and culture are driven by changes in production. By studying this relation, we can develop the tools we need to leave our own mark on history.

Therefore, we are proud to release a presentation by Marcus Katryniuk, an activist of the RCP, on the Materialist Conception of History, and how workers and youth can make history.

Further Reading:

What is Historical Materialism?

Civilization, Barbarism, and the Marxist View of History