| This question <102|108> overall <103|106> DuckSoup: <25|162-4>. graded A |
| Question 187: How does Marx's use of the term “fetishism” compare with its modern dictionary definition? |
| [105] DuckSoup: fetishism In response to Cleo, [92] I wasn't aware that Marx stated that this fetishism should be avoided. I think he is just stating an observation regarding the fetish like characteristics of commodities and behaviors in a capitalistic society. Although I agree that the fetishism displayed in capitalistic society does result in people lusting for the power that they believe material wealth will bring them. Unfortunately, it does bring a few power, but at the expense of others. |
| The fetish like character of commodities is a social property that the commodity is endowed with at the time of production. This “quasi-physical” property is promulgated by society and is acted out in the social relations or the producers and the consumers. Although an individual may understand that the fetish like character of the commodity is not a physical property, due to societal pressure, it is difficult for most to act otherwise. The commodities, or material possessions, may, as Hans annotations suggest, act as a substitute for direct social relations. Maybe we are using these material possessions to fill the void created by the lack of connectivity to our lives processes. The alienation this creates is fertile ground for exploitation. |
| As for a comparison of Marx's “fetishism” to a modern dictionary definition I would say that they are very similar, but do have some distinct differences. The dictionary definition is more superstitious and really describes an aspect of an individual, where as Marx's is reality, it has very real effects, even though it is rooted in an illusion and is societal condition. |
| Hans: Good observation that the dictionary gives an individuaiistic interpretation, while Marx focuses on the social connections. |
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