2025/09/02 by Chen-xi Gao, Mingze Bai · 1 voice
Arts and Humanities · Social Sciences · #Foucault, Power, and Ethics #Marxism and Critical Theory #Political Economy and Marxism
paper · doi:10.1080/10370196.2026.2642854
openalex publication_date 2025/09/02 · openalex created_date 2026/04/03 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/15
This study resurrects and reframes a vital but overlooked aspect of Marx’s theoretical framework: his theory of need. Addressing the limitations in Agnes Heller’s pioneering work, it introduces the concept of ‘regime of need’ to highlight the centrality of need in understanding historical and social transformations. The analytical tools of ‘fundamental need’ and ‘dominant need’ are developed to examine the economic specifications and characteristics of these regimes. By analysing Marx’s original texts, this study demonstrates the intrinsic connection of his theory of need and value theory with broader socio-economic analysis. The proposed framework bridges gaps between Marxist and feminist perspectives in the domestic labour debate, highlighting the theoretical potential of this renewed appreciation of Marx’s relevance.