Explain Engels' theory of historical materialism.
Historical materialism is our fundamental method for understanding history and society. It posits that the economic base of society – the mode of production, the forces and relations of production – is the primary determinant of the social, political, and intellectual superstructure. Changes in the forces of production drive historical development, leading to class struggles that ultimately result in revolutionary transformations of society. It's about understanding history not as a series of random events, but as a progression driven by material, economic forces.
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