Write an essay of at least 3 pages (typed, double-spaced, etc.) on one of the following:
1. Marx defines use-value as the particular qualities by which a commodity satisfies a particular want or need. So use-value exists objectively in the commodity. However, the commodity itself is the product of purposive activity (production), that is, a subjective purpose is objectified in the commodity so that the commodity’s use-value can satisfy the subjective want or need of a consumer. Explain the relations among the subjective purpose of the producer of the commodity as a use-value, the objective character of use-value in the commodity, and the subjective want or need of the consumer. Be sure to account for the social character of wants and needs, and the way in which it creates a relation between particular useful things and the wants or needs that they can satisfy: that is, wants and needs are not generic or formless, they are for particular things with particular qualities, and these things are produced in particular societies.
NOTE: This question is about use-value, production, and consumption; it is not about exchange-value and value (so it is about products, not commodities). Be sure to draw not only on the first two pages of chap.1, and of chap. 7, section 1, of Capital, vol. I, but also on the passage from the Grundrisse distributed in class.
2. According to Marx, there are always two things going on at the same time in the capitalist mode of production:
In the commodity: use-value | value
In the production of the commodity: concrete labour | abstract labour
In circulation: simple circulation | capital
In purpose: satisfaction of wants and needs | unlimited accumulation of capital
Explain each of these dualities. Show how all the others are derived from the first. Why does Marx think that the relation between each pair of terms is one of tension and contradiction, and why is this so important for his understanding of the capitalist mode of production?
NOTE: Be sure to answer ALL three parts of the prompt. (Hint: the third is the most important.)
3. In chap. 7 of Capital, vol. I, Marx divides the capitalist production process between the labour process and the valorization process. Why are both of these processes necessary for the goal of the capitalist (the production of surplus-value)? What do the two processes have in common? What distinguishes them from one another?
NOTE: Be sure to explain what happens in each process, and the way in which they give expression to the distinction between use-value and value.
No introduction or conclusion, start right in on the questions!
No quotations, use your own words!!
Don’t just assert, EXPLAIN!!!
BASE YOUR ANSWERS ON THE READINGS!!!!
ANSWER THE QUESTIONS ASKED, DO NOT WRITE ABOUT ANYTHING ELSE!!!!!
The assigned readings, class lectures and discussion, and your own thought are all you need for the essay, DO NOT USE OUTSIDE SOURCES, they will only confuse you.
The essay must be submitted in class, in hard copy, I will not accept electronic submissions.
