What is the Difference Between Marxism and Maoism?

Marxism and Maoism are both political philosophies based on communist principles, but they differ in their focus and approach. The main differences between Marxism and Maoism include:

1. Focus on social classes: Marxism focuses on the urban workers, while Maoism focuses on the peasant or farming population.
2. Adaptation to Chinese conditions: Maoism adapts Marxism-Leninism to Chinese conditions and argues that it can be applied universally. It is considered a higher stage of Marxism-Leninism by its followers.
3. Industrialization and technology: Marxism believes in an economically strong state that is industrialized, while Maoism does not give value to industrialization or technology.
4. Revolutionary strategy: Maoism emphasizes the importance of revolutionary war and building a socialist society through prolonged guerrilla warfare and the establishment of "red areas" that eventually surround and take over cities.

In summary, Marxism focuses on the urban working class and industrialization, while Maoism adapts Marxism to the Chinese context, emphasizing the agrarian population and a different revolutionary strategy.

Comparative Table: Marxism vs Maoism

Marxism and Maoism are both political philosophies that advocate for a moneyless, stateless, wageless, and classless society, where production is for use rather than profit. However, there are some differences between the two ideologies, particularly in their approach to revolution and the role of the proletariat. Here is a table summarizing the differences between Marxism and Maoism:

While Maoism has been considered a higher stage of Marxism-Leninism, it is essential to note that the differences between the two ideologies are primarily in their practical application and focus on specific groups as agents of change.