Marx in Soho

The issue of income inequality in the twenty first century highlights an ongoing struggle in the United States and abroad. The United States’ poverty gap has increased, as the rich are becoming wealthier and the poor are falling behind. The reasons for such causes can be credited to the American capitalist system promoting industry, innovation, and business. However said, the issue has led to other scary realities, such as the increasing popularity of drugs, alcohol, and to the increase of violence. Similarly to the modern American capitalist system, the “Marx in Soho” skit conveys the same realities a century ago that were tied to the existing class system and division of labor between the Bourgeoisie and the Proletariat classes. Furthermore, Marx considered the idea of a world wide communist revolution that would end capitalism and provide a basis for a structured society in which the state would be in control of social behavior instead of the previous class system.

The presentation was performed in front of an audience of college students not only for educational purposes but to also appeal to the youth, who according to Marx, are the ones destined to unite and trigger a revolution. This was interesting because it challenged previous opinions about equality and morals in society. In twenty first century America, the youth is finding trouble making a living and competing in the capitalist society because of issues: such as not being able to pay college debt, having high mortgages, and facing unemployment. Thinking about these issues as a young individual myself, it became evident that the ideas conveyed in Marx’s manifesto and in the skit might not be as farfetched as they were before the skit. The twenty first century is already dealing with bigger issues of concern such as terrorism, and even the threat of nuclear weapon development. Thus, from a personal perspective the idea of a worldwide revolution is not feasible or convenient for the future.