Karl Marx's theory of historical materialism argues that social change is driven by what?

Karl Marx's theory of historical materialism posits that the primary driver of social change is the conflict between classes, particularly between the ruling class and the working class. This theory emphasizes that economic forces and the production relations in a society shape its social structures and changes over time. At the heart of Marx's analysis is the idea that societies progress through stages defined by their modes of production and the inherent contradictions within those systems. For instance, as productive capacities evolve, so too do the relations of power and control, leading to class struggles that spark social transformation.

The essence of this theory lies in its focus on class struggle, where the tensions and conflicts arising from the unequal distribution of resources and power propel societal change. Historical materialism suggests that these struggles are not just incidental but fundamental to the progression of societies throughout history. This model provides a framework for understanding how conflicts can lead to revolutions or significant societal shifts, illustrating how material conditions influence political and social realities.