Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No.4, 2014

Lenin’s Theory of Imperialism: Historical Disputes and Contemporary Commentaries

(Abstract)

Jiang An

On the basis of Marxism and a combination of active use and dialectical criticism of contemporary classical imperialist theory, Lenin’s theory of imperialism provides an empirical analysis of the historical logic and laws of development of capitalism, thus realizing the sublation of theory and thought at the level of critical logic, interpretive logic and constructive logic. It possesses a unique theoretical originality. Lenin’s theory of imperialism is a theoretical reflection of the development and historical trends of capitalism, a practical response to the worldwide structural contradictions arising from imperialism and a sign of the times in its earnest exploration and construction of the social values of a new civilization, and an intellectual deepening of the Marxist view of world history. Lenin’s methodology and general principles of his research of imperialism on the basis of the materialist view of history has not dated, nor have the propositions of his theory of imperialism based on research on monopoly. It is a declaration of war against the values, systems and practice of the old world, but also provides a completely new cognitive approach, philosophical attitude and value ideals for future society, making it a precious treasure for mankind across history.