Art Quote by Friedrich Engels
![“Just as Darwin discovered the law of evolution in organic nature, so Marx discovered the law of evolution in human history; he discovered the simple fact, hitherto concealed by an overgrowth of idealogy [sic], that mankind must first of all eat and drink, have shelter and clothing, before it can…” quote by Friedrich Engels](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/148/friedrich-engels-8301_art_just-as-darwin-discovered-the-law-of-evo_1842025.jpg)
“Just as Darwin discovered the law of evolution in organic nature, so Marx discovered the law of evolution in human history; he discovered the simple fact, hitherto concealed by an overgrowth of idealogy [sic], that mankind must first of all eat and drink, have shelter and clothing, before it can pursue politics, science, religion, art etc.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Socialism: Utopian and Scientific, 1880
Human development follows material needs before higher pursuits; basic survival is prerequisite for cultural and political activity.
In simple terms: People must meet basic needs before engaging in higher pursuits.
Key Takeaway
Ensure basic needs are met first.
Themes
materialism
human needs
history
politics
philosophy
Mood
analytical
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
educational
When to use this quote
- policy planning
- social welfare
- education reform
- community development
Key Concepts
dialectical materialism
economic determinism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do societies prioritize basic needs?
- What happens when material conditions are ignored?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting basic needs hampers progress and can cause unrest.
![“I have learned more [from Balzac] than from all the professional historians, economists, and statisticians put together.” quote by Friedrich Engels](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/22f/friedrich-engels-8301_balzac_i-have-learned-more-from-balzac-than-fro_62197.jpg)
![“...it was always our view that in order to attain this [proletarian revolution] and the other far more important aims of the future social revolution, the working class must first take possession of the organised political power of the state and by its aid crush the resistance of the capitalist…” quote by Friedrich Engels](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/458/friedrich-engels-8301_aids_it-was-always-our-view-that-in-order-to_258810.jpg)
