Diotima: The Marist Undergraduate Philosophy Journal
Conclusion
Although the United States does not appear to be moving towards developing class
consciousness that helps unify the workforce in the effort to overthrow the
bourgeoisie and seize the means of production, it is still important to consider these
Marxist perspectives. The plight against institutionalized discrimination and
inequities requires us to conduct an intersectional analysis about the relationship
between capitalism and modes of oppression. Defining capitalism and democracy as
they are, rather than as what they are not, should be avoided, however, since it is
precisely the act of defining an ideology as a “practice” rather than a set of
principles that can lead to the rise of fascism. If no one is able to define what its
main tenets are, then no one can say what it is not and, thus, fight against it.
Before American society can live freely from all expressions of systemic oppression,
we must recognize the different class and social relations that created intersectional
forms of discrimination. As previously emphasized in my arguments regarding
social inequality, institutionalized discrimination is one of the main conditions for
capitalist reproduction. Additionally, the lens of neoliberalism and liberal feminism
are both closely related in that they assume a form of white feminism and class
solidarity, which helps liberate white women but, ultimately, does nothing for
women of color. Neoliberalism in capitalist societies still reinforces a culture that
upholds capitalist ideals; therefore, it cannot be presented as an effective cure to
social disparities. Women of color have been the earliest victims of the exploitation
of reproductive labor; therefore, their liberation is contingent upon the elimination
of the capitalist system since white supremacy and white nationalism is part of its
essence. Therefore, I strongly condemn the use of women as political pawns to
orchestrate the myth that capitalism can support the complete liberation of
oppressed groups. As outlined by my main claim, attempt to reform the capitalist
system will be ineffective because institutionalized discrimination is a prerequisite
for its survival and reproduction. Capitalism is both existentially repressive and
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Volume VI (2023)
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