THE CONTESTED CHARACTER OF RELIGION IN KARL MARX’S PHILOSOPHY

ABSTRACT

There are so many factors which are key in understanding Marx’s critique of capitalism. One of such factors is religion. Religion in Marx’s philosophy can be understood in context – the context of exploitation and alienation. However, Marx understanding of religion is facile and contestable given that the role of religion in the society is beyond the myopic view given by Marx. Thus, this project examines Marx’s notion of religion and argues using the critical analysis method that the purpose of religion in the society is not to exploit the proletarians but peaceful co-existence of members of the community with the view of serving a Supreme Being. This work further argues that the notion of Religion in Marx’s philosophy is contestable.