Explain the concept of class struggle in communism.

In communism, the concept of class struggle refers to the ongoing conflict between the working class (proletariat) and the ruling class (bourgeoisie). This conflict arises due to the inherent contradictions and inequalities within the capitalist system, which communism seeks to abolish.

According to communist theory, the bourgeoisie, who own and control the means of production, exploit the proletariat by extracting surplus value from their labor. The working class, on the other hand, only possess their labor power and are forced to sell it to the bourgeoisie in order to survive. This creates a fundamental division between those who own and control the means of production and those who do not.

The class struggle in communism is driven by the desire of the proletariat to overthrow the bourgeoisie and establish a classless society. Communists argue that the working class, being the majority, holds the potential power to bring about this revolution. They believe that the exploitation and oppression faced by the proletariat under capitalism will eventually lead to their collective consciousness and realization of their common interests.

Communist ideology suggests that the class struggle is not only economic but also political and ideological. The ruling class uses its economic power to maintain its dominance and control over the state apparatus, legal systems, and cultural institutions. This allows them to perpetuate their interests and suppress any challenges to their authority.

The ultimate goal of the class struggle in communism is the establishment of a communist society, where the means of production are collectively owned and controlled by the working class. In this society, social classes would cease to exist, and the principle of "from each according to their ability, to each according to their needs" would prevail.

It is important to note that the concept of class struggle in communism is not limited to a violent revolution. While some communist movements have advocated for armed uprisings, others have pursued peaceful means of achieving social change, such as through political parties and labor unions. Nonetheless, the central idea remains the same - the struggle for the emancipation of the working class from capitalist exploitation and the establishment of a classless society.