Understanding Marxism Through Modern Examples: Capitalists and Workers
This content explores the principles of Marxism with modern examples, specifically examining the relationship between capitalists and workers using Tom Brady and Robert Kraft as case studies. It discusses the concept of surplus value in the context of sports salaries and the implications of the reserve army of labor on wages. By analyzing the dynamics of capitalism through real-world scenarios, the material aims to deepen understanding of Marxist theory. Key concepts such as means of production, surplus value, and the reserve army of labor are highlighted for educational purposes.
Understanding Marxism Through Modern Examples: Capitalists and Workers
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Presentation Transcript
Table of Contents • Marxism 11.26 • Marxism 11.27 MAKE UP WORK 11.27
Capitalists: Robert Kraft (owner of the Pats) • Worker: Tom Brady (quarterback) • Tom Brady $6 million base salary for 2012 • Earns the Patriots likely $200 million from jersey sales, advertising, stadium tickets, etc. • Surplus value: $194 million
Means of Production: Gillete Stadium, locker rooms, jerseys, etc.
Reserve Army • The “unemployed” labor pool that capitalists can replace workers with. • Tom Brady’s “reserve army”: 2-3 other quarterbacks. • McDonalds employee “reserve army”: 2-3 billion. • Brady $6,000,000 • McDonalds employee $ 6 / hour • Relationship between size of the reserve army and worker salaries: • The larger the reserve army, the lower wages Cs can pay Ws.
Classwork • There are TWO reading in the packet. Find a partner and divide up the reading/questions. Write the answers in your notebook. • Do not just write the answer! You won’t understand it later on when you use your notes to review. Ex: 1. When the capitalist takes more money beyond what is needed. 1. Surplus value: When the capitalist takes more money beyond what is needed. • Make sure you write the date (11.26) in your notebook and underline/highlight key terms. • Do not copy from your classmates- have them explain/read their answers to you. If you copy, you will receive half-credit for the assignment.
