Identifying Marx's Epistemological Break

The concept of an epistemological break refers to a fundamental rupture or transformation in a field of knowledge or a thinker's theoretical framework.

In the context of Marxist thought, this term signifies a distinct shift from Karl Marx's early philosophical and humanist writings to his later, more scientifically oriented works focused on political economy and historical materialism.

Althusser's Analysis of Marx's Theories

• The philosopher most prominently associated with identifying and elaborating on this epistemological break in Marx's work is Louis Althusser.
• Althusser argued that Marx underwent a profound theoretical transformation, marking a definitive break from Hegelianism and Feuerbachian humanism.
• This break, according to Althusser, allowed Marx to develop his scientific theory of history, known as historical materialism.
• Therefore, Louis Althusser is credited with distinguishing between Marx's early ideological work and his mature scientific knowledge.