Abstract:

When Marx claimed that “I am not a Marxist”, it signified that the indisputable and exclusive concept of “Marxism” had already undergone differentiation. After the passing of Marx and Engels, the debate over “authentic Marxism” has permeated the whole history of Marxist development. The debate over “authentic Marxism” is typically related to the practice of socialist movements, pertaining to the question of “what is to be done with socialism”. The early debates over “authentic Marxism” centered on the theories of Bernstein and Kautsky, and today we should focus on the methodological aspects in their thinking. In the process of revolution, construction, and reform in the 20^th century, the Communist Party of China (CPC) has not only withstood the text of the question of “authentic Marxism” but has also successfully resolved it. Summarizing all the lessons of experience, it is that “authentic Marxism” must be guided by correct methodology and practice, rather than entangled in textual interpretations. Only by treating Marxism in this way can it remain full of vitality.

Key words: Marxism, debate on “authentic Marxism”, Communist Party of China