Summarize the basic tenets of Marxism and explain how this ideology came to be a basis for terrorist groups

Question

What will be an ideal response

Answer 1

Marxism was originally a theory rooted in the works of Karl Marx during the 1800s. It sought to seek change or eliminate capitalism because it was perceived to be corrupt and oppressive by taking away the possibility of the working class to obtain wealth and power. This was to be done by overthrowing the government. It did not promote peaceful demonstrations and incremental changes in the government. Initially, middle and working-class people in Europe had movements to overthrow monarchies and institute self-rule. This became the basis for revolutions through the dissatisfaction of different groups of people under a governing body. Since these dissatisfied groups were often smaller than the reigning government, terrorist tactics were used to aid their success.

Marxism also promoted the concept of communism which purports that capitalism is exploitive, corrupt, and leads to wealth that is concentrated in a few hands. Communism is characterized by the elimination of private property, and that all goods and services should be available to all as needed. The means to obtain communism is through socialism which is achieved through revolution.