Skip to content

The form of family corresponding to civilization and…

“The form of family corresponding to civilization and coming to definite supremacy with it is monogamy, the domination of the man over the woman, and the single family as the economic unit of society. The central link in civilized society is the state, which in all typical periods is without…” quote by Frederick Engels
Download Open image
““The form of family corresponding to civilization and coming to definite supremacy with it is monogamy, the domination of the man over the woman, and the single family as the economic unit of society. The central link in civilized society is the state, which in all typical periods is without exception the state of the ruling class, and in all cases continues to be essentially a machine for holding down the oppressed, exploited class.””

Frederick Engels

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Monogamy and the state serve capitalist class interests, oppressing the working class.

In simple terms: Family and state structures oppress workers.

Key Takeaway

Question societal structures that sustain inequality.

Themes

family state class struggle

Mood

critical analytical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • social movements
  • policy reform
  • education

Key Concepts

capitalism oppression economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do family structures reinforce class?
  • Can the state be reformed?
A Different Perspective

Some view monogamy as personal choice.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Frederick Engels

Explore all 5 Frederick Engels quotes

More Capitalism quotes

Browse all 3,832 Capitalism quotes